Pecan Snowball Cookies

Step-by-step instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of creating these snowball cookies!

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s well incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
10. While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
11. Once cooled completely, roll the cookies again in powdered sugar to achieve that snowy effect.

Best ways to enjoy it

The best way to serve your Pecan Snowball Cookies? It’s all about presentation and pairing! We recommend displaying them on a festive platter, perhaps dusted with more powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.

Pair these cookies with a cup of hot cocoa, freshly brewed coffee, or a light herbal tea to contrast the sweetness. They also make perfect treats for gift-giving – imagine them beautifully boxed up with a ribbon, ready to spread cheer during the holiday season!

How to store

To keep your Pecan Snowball Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll last for up to 3 months.

When ready to serve after freezing, let them thaw at room temperature and roll them in powdered sugar again for that fresh-baked appearance.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your Pecan Snowball Cookies come out perfectly every time:

• Use room temperature butter: This helps achieve that light and fluffy texture when creaming with sugar.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until you can’t see any flour. Overworking the dough can lead to dense cookies.
• Chill the dough for easier rolling: If the dough is too soft, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can help in rolling the balls.

Creative twists

Feel free to get creative with your Pecan Snowball Cookies! Here are a few variations to consider:

• Add chocolate chips: Incorporate semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for a delicious chocolatey twist!
• Experiment with flavors: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract or add a pinch of cinnamon for a spiced version.
• Nut alternatives: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try using hazelnuts or macadamia nuts for a unique flavor.

FAQs

How long do Pecan Snowball Cookies take to prepare?

The entire process takes around 30-40 minutes from prep to baking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1 in baking.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freezing is recommended!

These Pecan Snowball Cookies are a must-try if you’re looking for a sweet treat filled with holiday spirit and flavor. Happy baking!

Pecan Snowball Cookies

Deliciously soft and rich cookies rolled in powdered sugar and infused with finely chopped pecans, perfect for any festive occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 38 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 100

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use room temperature butter for best results.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for rolling Extra for rolling after baking.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free blend.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans Can be substituted with walnuts or other nuts.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place about 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.

Baking

1. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
3. While warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
4. Once completely cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again.

Notes

Cookies can be paired with hot cocoa, coffee, or herbal tea. Store in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.