Welcome to your cozy corner for recipes that feel like home! Today, we’re diving into one of the most nostalgic holiday treats around: snowball cookies. These melt-in-your-mouth delights go by many names—Mexican wedding cookies, Russian tea cakes, butterballs—but they all share the same irresistible charm: a buttery, nutty base wrapped in a snowy coat of powdered sugar.
Whether you’re prepping a holiday dessert tray, need a quick cookie for a gathering, or simply want a bite of something sweet with your afternoon tea, snowball cookies check all the boxes. They’re a cherished favorite for a reason—no fancy tools, no complicated steps, just pure comfort and flavor.
And here’s the best part: this classic cookie can be made in under 30 minutes. Let’s jump in and bring a little extra joy to your kitchen today!
Key Benefits
Snowball cookies aren’t just cute to look at—they’re full of reasons to become your go-to sweet treat, especially during the holidays:
- Quick and Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and a short baking time, these cookies are a dream for busy bakers. Whether you’re short on time or energy, this recipe delivers results without stress.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze the dough or baked cookies ahead of time. They defrost beautifully and keep their buttery softness, making them ideal for holiday prep.
- Customizable Flavor: While the traditional version uses pecans or walnuts, you can switch things up with almonds, hazelnuts, or even mini chocolate chips. Want a citrus note? Add a little orange zest!
- Perfect Gift Cookies: Their round shape and powdered sugar coating make them look as good as they taste. Tuck a few into a festive tin or clear bag, and you’ve got a sweet little gift ready to share.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Let the kids join in by rolling the cookies in sugar while they’re still warm, it’s simple and a blast for little helpers. It’s a sweet family moment and a great introduction to baking for beginners.
Need another festive classic to add to your cookie platter? If you’re into rich, chocolatey desserts, our German chocolate cookies are a gooey treat worth trying!
Ingredients for Snowball Cookies
Chances are, your pantry’s already stocked with all the basics for this recipe! Here’s what goes into these magical little cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar for the dough, plus extra for coating the cookies later
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans (or walnuts, almonds)
Ingredient Notes:
- Butter: Softened butter gives these cookies their signature tender crumb.
- Powdered Sugar: Used in the dough and as the sweet, snowy finish.
- Vanilla: Enhances the cozy, sweet notes in every bite.
- Chopped Nuts: For the best texture, chop your nuts finely—this lets them melt into the cookie without overwhelming the bite.
You’ll love pairing these with our cream cheese crescent roll appetizer for a festive sweet and savory combo!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Snowball Cookies
These cookies come together with just a few simple steps—and you don’t even need a mixer if you’re up for a little hand mixing!
- Cream the Butter: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened butter with powdered sugar until smooth and airy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Add the Nuts: Fold in the finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes. That chill time keeps the dough from spreading so your cookies stay perfectly round.
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F and get your baking sheet ready with parchment paper.
- Roll and Bake: Grab a tablespoon of dough at a time, roll it into a ball, and you’re good to go. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes, until set but not browned.
- Coat in Sugar: Let the cookies cool just slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Let them cool completely, then give them one more sugar roll for that perfect snowy look.
Want to pair these with another sweet bite? Our churro cheesecake brings that cinnamon crunch that’s just as crave-worthy.
Pro Tips and Variations for Snowball Cookies
Looking to personalize your snowball cookies or make the process even easier? These tips will take your batch from good to bakery-worthy.
Pro Tips:
- Double Roll: Always roll the cookies in sugar twice—once when warm, once when cool—for that iconic powdery finish.
- Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure even baking and pretty presentation.
- Let Them Rest: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
- Cool Before Storing: Make sure the cookies are completely cool before storing to keep the sugar coating from melting.
Variations:
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts and replace with mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut.
- Citrus Twist: Brighten things up by mixing in a little lemon or orange zest—it adds a fresh, zesty pop to each bite.
- Spiced Snowballs: Toss in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced finish.
- Gluten-Free: Just use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend—it keeps the cookies just as soft and tasty.
For a show-stopping dessert board, don’t forget to include our Christmas cranberry salad alongside these cookies—it’s a sweet-tart contrast you’ll love.
Serving Suggestions for Snowball Cookies
There are so many ways to enjoy these classic cookies beyond simply popping one in your mouth (though we love that too!). Here are some fun ideas:
- Holiday Cookie Platters: Arrange them alongside other cookies like gingerbread or blueberry French toast bites for a stunning dessert spread.
- Gift Bags and Tins: Package them in festive bags or tins with a handwritten tag for a heartfelt homemade gift.
- Coffee Companion: Serve with your favorite afternoon brew—snowball cookies pair beautifully with black coffee or espresso.
- Ice Cream Topping: Crumble a few over vanilla ice cream for a delightful texture and sweetness contrast.
- Mini Sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of Nutella or jam between two snowballs for a fun twist on the classic.
Need something savory to balance all this sweetness? Our head cheese guide walks you through a fascinating old-world appetizer.
Trasted Resources for Snowball Cookies
- Learn more about the origin of snowball cookies in this article from The Kitchn.
- Serious Eats explains the science behind crumbly, buttery cookies—key for snowball perfection.
- Explore a list of top holiday cookies and tips for gifting from Bon Appétit.
- For freezing and storing baked goods, check out this guide on Healthline.
Conclusion
Snowball cookies bring back the magic of holiday baking in every bite. From their tender, buttery crumb to their sweet powdered finish, they’re the kind of treat that sparks memories and creates new traditions. Whether you’re baking solo or with family, this recipe is simple enough to whip up on a whim yet special enough to be passed down for generations.
At Recipes2Gather.com, we’re here to make baking feel joyful, not stressful. These cookies are proof that a little sugar and butter can bring a whole lot of love to your kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron—it’s time to bring a little snowball joy into your kitchen!
Print
Snowball Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth Blissfully
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These buttery snowball cookies are tender, nutty, and coated in sweet powdered sugar—perfect for holidays, gifting, or a cozy treat anytime.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until light. Mix in vanilla.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Combine flour and salt, then gradually add to butter mixture.
- Fold in Nuts: Stir in chopped pecans.
- Chill Dough: Refrigerate dough for 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F and line a baking sheet.
- Shape and Bake: Roll into balls and bake for 12–14 minutes.
- Powder Sugar: While warm, roll in powdered sugar. Cool completely and roll again.
Notes
Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Switch up the nuts or add citrus zest for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 14 mins
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: snowball cookies, holiday cookies, Mexican wedding cookies, Russian tea cakes
FAQs About Snowball Cookies
Can I make snowball cookies without nuts?
Absolutely! Just leave them out or substitute with mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut.
Why do I roll them in sugar twice?
Coat the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm so it clings nicely, then roll them again once they cool for that perfect snowy finish.
Can I freeze these cookies?
You can freeze either the dough or the baked cookies—they hold up great either way. Store in airtight containers and dust again with powdered sugar after thawing.
How long do they stay fresh?
Stored in a sealed container on the counter, they’ll keep their flavor and texture for about a week.
Do they spread while baking?
Not at all! Letting the dough chill makes it easier to shape and helps the cookies hold their cute round form while baking.