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Snowball Cookies: A Delightful Holiday Treat
When it comes to holiday baking, there are certain cookies that become staples in many kitchens. One such treat that’s both timeless and adored by all is Snowball Cookies. These little delights, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are soft, buttery, and rolled in powdered sugar, making them a perfect bite-sized indulgence. With their delicate texture and festive appearance, snowball cookies have earned their place as a favorite holiday treat, but they can be enjoyed year-round.
If you’ve never made these delightful cookies, or if you’re looking for a way to perfect your recipe, here’s everything you need to know about how to make Snowball Cookies, including some tips and variations to add your personal touch!
What Are Snowball Cookies?
Snowball cookies are buttery, nut-filled cookies shaped into little round balls, then rolled in powdered sugar. The powdered sugar coating gives them a snow-like appearance, hence the name “snowball.” The flavor is rich and nutty, and they have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them perfect for any occasion. Their simple ingredients and easy preparation make them a go-to recipe for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
Ingredients for Snowball Cookies
Snowball cookies require just a few pantry staples, making them an affordable and simple treat to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 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 chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds are commonly used)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (optional, for extra melt-in-your-mouth texture)
Instructions: How to Make Snowball Cookies
Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious, melt-in-your-mouth snowball cookies.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat 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.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat them until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix it in.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift the all-purpose flour and salt (and cornstarch, if using) into the bowl with the butter mixture. Mix until combined. You should have a smooth dough at this point.
Step 4: Incorporate the Nuts
Fold in the chopped nuts of your choice—pecans, walnuts, or almonds are traditional, but you can get creative with your choices! Ensure the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Arrange the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should still be soft to the touch in the center, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Coat with Powdered Sugar
Once the cookies have cooled for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet, gently roll them in a bowl of powdered sugar. Be sure to coat them thoroughly while they’re still warm, so the sugar sticks.
Allow the cookies to cool completely before giving them a second dusting of powdered sugar, if desired. This double-coating will give them that signature snowy appearance.
Step 8: Store and Serve
Snowball cookies are best stored in an airtight container. Th
