Southern Pecan Butterballs

Southern Pecan Butterballs are a delightful treat that combines the rich, creamy flavor of butter with the nutty crunch of pecans. This recipe is wonderfully simple, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros who want a sweet indulgence without extensive effort. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and lovely presentation rolled in powdered sugar, these cookies are great for gatherings, holidays, or just because.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 150
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 50mg

Why Make Southern Pecan Butterballs

Southern Pecan Butterballs are not only scrumptious but also incredibly versatile. They are a great way to incorporate more nuts into your diet, providing healthy fats and some protein. Plus, these cookies can be customized with different nuts or flavorings, allowing you to adapt them to your preference. Whether you’re enjoying them with coffee in the morning or serving them at a family gathering, they are bound to impress.

How to Make Southern Pecan Butterballs Step by Step
Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped pecans
1/4 teaspoon salt
Extra powdered sugar for rolling

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour, chopped pecans, and salt until well combined.
5. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool slightly, then roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm.
8. Let them cool completely on a wire rack and roll them in powdered sugar again before serving.

How to Serve Southern Pecan Butterballs

These delightful Southern Pecan Butterballs are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the experience. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. They also pair beautifully with a fresh fruit salad for a delightful contrast of flavors. If you’re planning a festive get-together, a platter of these cookies will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

How to Store Southern Pecan Butterballs

To keep your Southern Pecan Butterballs fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, these cookies freeze well. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature, or reheat them briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

Expert Tips for Cooking Southern Pecan Butterballs

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best mixing and texture.
• To enhance the nutty flavor, you can toast the chopped pecans before adding them to the dough.
• Don’t overbake—keep an eye on them; they should be just lightly golden when you take them out of the oven.
• Roll them in powdered sugar twice for an extra sweet coating.
• Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for a new twist!

Delicious Variations of Southern Pecan Butterballs

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice twist. You might also try incorporating shredded coconut for a tropical flair. If you enjoy a citrus punch, a little lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavor beautifully.

If you’re looking for a treat that combines flavor, ease, and versatility, give Southern Pecan Butterballs a try. They are not only delicious but also sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the rich, buttery taste and delightful pecan crunch in every bite!