Pecan Snowball Cookies

There’s something undeniably delightful about treats that evoke warm memories, isn’t there? Pecan Snowball Cookies are a cherished family tradition for me. Picture this: snowy afternoons filled with laughter as my loved ones gathered in the kitchen, the aroma of butter and vanilla swirling in the air. These cookies, with their tender crumb and nutty crunch, remind me of those cozy moments—brightening any winter day or holiday celebration. They may look simple, but they are anything but basic—each bite is like a fuzzy blanket on a chilly morning.

Why you’ll love this recipe

You might be wondering, what makes Pecan Snowball Cookies so special? Let me tell you—their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich buttery flavor create a symphony of comfort that warms the heart. The balance of lightly sweetened dough with the toasty crunch of finely chopped pecans creates a delightful contrast. These cookies are the perfect blend of nostalgia and homey goodness, making them ideal for gift-giving or just savoring with a cup of tea.

And here’s something magical—these little morsels can bring people together. Imagine serving them at a holiday party and watching as your guests’ eyes widen in delight! Not only are they pleasing to the palate, but they also make any gathering feel more festive and cozy, creating an atmosphere of warmth and shared joy.

Gather these ingredients

Let’s talk about what you’ll need to whip up these delightful snowballs. Here’s the lineup:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The star of our show! Softened butter is crucial—it brings in that rich flavor and helps achieve that dreamy texture. You can experiment with using salted butter if you’re feeling adventurous, but it’ll add a touch more saltiness than I typically prefer.

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: This isn’t just for sweetness; it’s key for that melt-in-your-mouth quality. It blends beautifully with the butter, creating a smooth, luscious base. If you’re out of powdered sugar, you can grind granulated sugar in a food processor—just make sure it’s super fine!

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This adds depth and a comforting aroma that makes these cookies irresistible. If you have the luxury of using homemade vanilla extract, oh, you’ll notice the difference!

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough. Use all-purpose for the best texture. If you’re looking for a lighter variation, try swapping in some cake flour—but keep an eye on how your dough handles!

• 1 cup finely chopped pecans: The pièce de résistance! Toasting them lightly before adding them to your dough will elevate their flavor—trust me on this, it adds a gorgeous depth and nuttiness.

• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balancing sweetness with a touch of salt is the secret ingredient that enhances all flavors. If you’re using salted butter, you might consider skipping this.

• Additional powdered sugar for coating: Because what’s a snowball without a little dusting of snow?

The cooking process explained

Ready to create these little beauties? Here’s how it all comes together in easy steps:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is an essential step for even baking, so don’t skip this part!

2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, take that beautiful softened butter and the powdered sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This could take about 3-5 minutes. You’re looking for a creamy, pale blend that feels airy.

3. Add the vanilla extract: Stir in the vanilla and watch how it transforms everything with its sweet aroma.

4. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Gradually add your flour and salt. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we don’t want any of that!

5. Fold in those pecans: Now, gently fold in your finely chopped pecans. Try to make sure they’re evenly distributed in the dough without overworking it.

6. Shape the cookies: Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls about one inch in diameter. Place them on a lined baking sheet with some space between each one—these cookies love a little room to spread.

7. Bake them up: Pop them in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Keep a close watch; they can go from perfect to overdone in the blink of an eye.

8. Roll in powdered sugar: Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly, then roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar. This is where the magic happens! Allow them to cool completely before giving them another dusting if you desire.

Best way to enjoy it

When it comes to serving these delightful cookies, simplicity reigns supreme. A neat little tower on a rustic plate or a decorative cookie tin makes them really stand out. Pair them with a warm drink—think a rich cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or perhaps a spiced chai. The buttery flavor of the cookies melds beautifully with any of these beverages, creating a moment that’s just perfect for a cozy afternoon or a celebratory gathering with friends.

Storage and reheating tips

What if you have some cookies left over—if that’s even possible? These gems store beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture, and they’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to extend their life, freeze them! Lay them flat in a single layer, then freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply let it thaw at room temperature!

Helpful cooking tips

For those who want the inside scoop, here are some pro tips to up your cookie game:

• Make sure your butter is indeed softened—not melted. This ensures a light and fluffy texture.
• Toast those pecans! Just a quick trip in a dry skillet until they’re fragrant will enhance their natural flavor and take your cookies to the next level.
• When rolling the cookies in powdered sugar, do so while they’re still warm for the best adherence.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few fun variations to consider:

• Try swapping in different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a unique flavor profile.
• Add a touch of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version!
• Experiment with spices—cinnamon or nutmeg can add a lovely warmth that’s perfect for the holiday season.
• For a touch of tartness, fold in dried cranberries or mini chocolate chips.

Ingredients list

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Additional powdered sugar for coating

Directions to follow

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined.
5. Fold in the chopped pecans.
6. Shape the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before rolling in additional powdered sugar.
9. Allow to cool completely, then enjoy!

Your questions answered

• How long do these cookies take to make?
  From start to finish, expect about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on how fast you roll those balls!

• Can I use another type of nut?
  Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can easily swap in for pecans, just chop them finely.

• Are these cookies gluten-free?
  You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix—but be sure to check that your other ingredients are also gluten-free!

• What’s the best way to store these cookies?
  They store best in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week or can be frozen for longer storage.

• Can I add chocolate chips?
  Yes! Toss in some mini chocolate chips for an exciting chocolatey twist.

It’s time to embrace the joy of baking! These Pecan Snowball Cookies can add warmth to any occasion or simply spruce up a quiet afternoon at home. Don’t hesitate to add your own flair to the recipe; after all, the best part of cooking is making it your own. Now, get into that kitchen, roll up your sleeves, and create some cookie magic! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!

Print Recipe

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Pecan Snowball Cookies

Cooking Method: Baking, Mixing Courses: Dessert, Holidays, Snack Recipe Keys: D Dessert E Easy H Holidays S Sweet W Winter

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins

Cooking Temp: 350  F Servings: 24 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 150

Best Season: Winter

Description

Pecan Snowball Cookies are rich, buttery cookies with a tender crumb and nutty crunch, perfect for festive occasions and cozy afternoons.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (Use softened butter for best texture.)
• ¹⁄₂ cup powdered sugar (This contributes to the melt-in-your-mouth quality.)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Homemade vanilla extract enhances flavor.)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (All-purpose flour is preferred for texture.)
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans (Toast them lightly for better flavor.)
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt (Optional if using salted butter.)
• as needed additional powdered sugar for coating (Dusting for a snowball effect.)

Instructions

Baking Steps

1. Preheat the oven

   Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Preheating is essential for even baking.
   Mark as complete

2. Cream the butter and sugar

   In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
   Look for a creamy, pale blend.
   Mark as complete

3. Add the vanilla extract

   Stir in the vanilla extract.
   This adds depth and aroma.
   Mark as complete

4. Incorporate the dry ingredients

   Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
   Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
   Mark as complete

5. Fold in the pecans

   Gently fold in the chopped pecans into the dough.
   Ensure they are evenly distributed without overworking the dough.
   Mark as complete

6. Shape the cookies

   Roll the dough into small balls about one inch in diameter and place them on a lined baking sheet.
   Leave space for the cookies to spread.
   Mark as complete

7. Bake the cookies

   Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
   Watch closely to prevent overbaking.
   Mark as complete

8. Roll in powdered sugar

   Once cooled slightly, roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar and cool completely.
   For best results, roll while still warm.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 24

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 150kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 10g16%

Saturated Fat 5g25%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 30mg10%

Sodium 20mg1%

Potassium 30mg1%

Total Carbohydrate 15g5%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 5g

Protein 2g4%

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Vitamin A 300 IU

Vitamin C 0 mg

Calcium 10 mg

Iron 0.5 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 1 IU

Vitamin K 1 mcg

Thiamin 0.1 mg

Riboflavin 0.1 mg

Niacin 0.2 mg

Vitamin B6 0 mg

Folate 4 mcg

Vitamin B12 0 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0.5 mg

Phosphorus 20 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 5 mg

Zinc 0.4 mg

Selenium 4 mcg

Copper 0.2 mg

Manganese 0.3 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Perfect for holiday gifting or cozy afternoons.

Keywords: cookies, pecan, snowball, holiday, gift-giving