Hello, Lykkers! When the cold winds begin to howl and the snow blankets the ground, there's nothing quite like baking a batch of soft, buttery Snowball Cookies.
These little bites of magic melt in your mouth and are perfect for cozying up with a warm cup of tea.
Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them solo, Snowball Cookies are the perfect treat for any winter occasion. Best of all, they’re easy to make—so why not add a little extra sweetness to this chilly season?
<h3>Why Snowball Cookies?</h3>
Snowball Cookies, often called Mexican Wedding Cookies, are beloved for their rich, nutty flavor and light, crumbly texture. Coated in a delicate layer of powdered sugar, these cookies not only taste amazing but also resemble little snowballs—making them the perfect treat for the colder months.
These cookies are delightfully versatile: while they can be enjoyed year-round, they truly shine during the winter holidays, adding a festive touch to any gathering. The best part? They're incredibly simple to make, even for novice bakers. If you're looking to bring some warmth and sweetness to your kitchen, Snowball Cookies are the ideal recipe to try!
<h3>Ingredients You’ll Need</h3>
Making these irresistible Snowball Cookies is delightfully simple, and you only need a few basic ingredients. Here’s what to gather:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds work best)
<h3>Step-by-Step Recipe</h3>
<b>1. Preheat and Prepare</b> Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
<b>2. Cream the Butter and Sugar</b> In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes using an electric mixer. Don’t rush this step—creaming the butter and sugar creates a light texture in the finished cookie.
<b>3. Add Vanilla</b> Mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s fully incorporated. The vanilla adds depth and warmth to the flavor of the cookies.
<b>4. Mix Dry Ingredients</b> In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined. The dough will be a bit crumbly, but don’t worry, it will come together when shaped.
<b>5. Add the Nuts</b> Fold in the chopped nuts, mixing them evenly throughout the dough. The nuts add a wonderful crunch and enhance the rich flavor of the cookies. <b>6. Shape the Cookies</b> Take a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball between your hands. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. These cookies won’t spread much, so the spacing is not as critical.
<b>7. Bake to Perfection</b> Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Keep an eye on them—they should remain pale and soft in the center.
<b>8. Powdered Sugar Finish</b> Once baked, allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar, ensuring they are coated evenly. Allow them to cool completely before giving them another dusting of powdered sugar for that signature “snowball” look.
Classic Snowball Cookies
Video by Bigger Bolder Baking with Gemma Stafford
<h3>Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies</h3>
<b>Chill the Dough:</b> If the dough is too soft to roll, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
<b>Nut Varieties:</b> Feel free to experiment with different nuts. Pecans add a buttery richness, while walnuts bring a bit more texture. Almonds provide a milder flavor, making them a great option if you prefer a less intense nutty taste.
<b>Extra Sweetness:</b> For a sweeter twist, try adding a small splash of almond extract along with the vanilla.
<h3>A Perfect Pairing for Any Occasion</h3>
Once the Snowball Cookies have cooled and are beautifully dusted with powdered sugar, they are ready to be shared. Whether placed in a festive tin as a gift or served alongside a warm beverage, these cookies are bound to be a hit. They also store well in an airtight container for up to a week—though it’s unlikely they’ll last that long!
These delicate, nutty, and sweet treats are as fun to make as they are to eat. They’re perfect for a cozy afternoon bake, or even a holiday tradition passed down through generations. Every bite brings warmth and sweetness, making the coldest of days a little brighter.
So, Lykkers, if the chilly weather has you craving something comforting and delicious, look no further than Snowball Cookies. They’re the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, and once you make them, they’re sure to become a favorite part of your baking repertoire. Enjoy the magic of the season with every crumb!
Happy baking!
