Name: Snowball Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2.25 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1/8 teaspoon salt (optional); 3/4 cup finely chopped toasted pecans (optional); 1.25 cups confectioners’ sugar

Introduction to Snowball Cookies

What are snowball cookies and why are they a must-try?

Snowball cookies, often known as Mexican wedding cookies or Russian tea cakes, are delightful treats characterized by their tender crumb and rich, buttery flavor. These bite-sized cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, creating a snowy exterior that adds to their charm. You might wonder, what sets them apart? Their unique melt-in-your-mouth texture and the possibility of incorporating your favorite nuts make them a standout!

Perfect as holiday treats or year-round delights, snowball cookies offer a simple yet delightful baking experience. With just five ingredients needed, you can whip up a batch in no time! The ease of preparation is a significant draw for busy young professionals—you only need one bowl and minimal cleanup.

From the optional added crunch of toasted pecans to their airy sweetness, these cookies cater to a range of tastes. Whether paired with a cup of herbal tea or enjoyed solo, they always deliver a comforting experience. If you love indulging in some charming homemade pastries, this snowball cookies recipe is a perfect choice. Plus, the simple process allows for creativity—try experimenting with various nuts or even sprinkles for added flair!

For step-by-step guidance, check out this great article on baking tips.

Ingredients for Snowball Cookies

Baking up a batch of snowball cookies can be a delightful experience, especially when you gather the right ingredients to make these treats come to life! Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential ingredients you'll need

To get started on your snowball cookies recipe, you'll want to gather these essential ingredients:

Unsalted butter: 1 cup, softened to room temperature for that creamy texture.
Confectioners’ sugar: ¾ cup, which not only sweetens but also gives your cookies a beautiful finish.
Pure vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons, adding a warm, inviting flavor.
All-purpose flour: 2 and ¼ cups, which serves as the foundation of your dough.
Salt: ⅛ teaspoon, balancing the sweetness perfectly.

Optional ingredients for added flavor

Want to elevate your snowball cookies recipe a notch? Consider these optional ingredients:

Finely chopped pecans: ¾ cup, toasted for a delicious crunch and nutty flavor. You can experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, too!
Sprinkles: If you're feeling festive, adding ½ cup can make for a fun, colorful twist.

With these ingredients, you're well on your way to baking some incredible snowball cookies that will delight family and friends alike! For more tips on ingredient measurement, you can check out Sally's Baking Addiction.

Preparing Snowball Cookies

Making snowball cookies is a delightful baking adventure that combines simplicity with the joy of sweet treats. These cookies are buttery, nutty, and rolled in confectioners' sugar, making them an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start baking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. For this snowball cookies recipe, you’ll need:

Unsalted butter (1 cup or 226g) at room temperature
Confectioners’ sugar (¾ cup or 90g) for the cookie dough and more for coating
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) for flavor
All-purpose flour (2 and ¼ cups or 281g), properly measured for the best results
A pinch of salt (⅛ teaspoon)
Optional: finely chopped and toasted pecans (¾ cup or 100g) for added taste

Having everything at your fingertips will make the process smoother and more enjoyable!

Cream the Butter and Sugar

Now it’s time to get mixing! In a large bowl, use a handheld or stand mixer to beat the softened butter on medium speed for about a minute until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar and continue mixing on medium-high speed until it’s well combined and fluffy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl when needed! Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.

Add Dry Ingredients and Nuts

Switch to low speed and slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt. The dough may look a bit dry at first, but don’t worry! Once everything is mixed in, increase your mixer speed to high, and the dough will come together beautifully. If you’re using pecans, fold them in at this stage to add that delightful nuttiness.

Chill the Dough for Better Texture

After mixing, it’s crucial to chill your dough. Cover it tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you plan to bake later, the dough can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember, if you chill it for extended hours, let it sit out for about 30 minutes before rolling.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) while you line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop out about 1 tablespoon (20g) of cookie dough for each cookie and roll them into balls before arranging them on the baking sheets with a couple of inches in between. Bake these little sweet orbs for approximately 15 minutes until they’re golden brown on the edges.

Coating with Confectioners’ Sugar

Once your cookies are out of the oven, let them cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. Then, it’s time for the fun part: rolling them in confectioners’ sugar! Give each cookie a gentle roll to ensure they’re coated evenly. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, and feel free to roll them in sugar again for that perfect snowy finish!

With these simple steps, you'll have homemade snowball cookies that are sure to impress your friends and family. Happy baking!

Variations on Snowball Cookies

Nutty Snowball Cookies with Pecans

For those who love a good crunch, consider adding toasted pecans to your snowball cookies recipe. The rich, buttery flavor of pecans harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. Just toast and finely chop some pecans before mixing them into the dough. Not only does this variation offer an irresistible texture, but it also elevates the overall flavor profile of your treats!

Creative Spins: Sprinkles and Other Nuts

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of color or a different flavor twist with sprinkles! You can swap out pecans for finely chopped alternatives, like walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios. The options are limitless! Just ensure they are toasted for an enhanced nutty taste. This flexibility makes your snowball cookies a canvas for creativity, perfect for any occasion. Who wouldn’t love a batch that bursts with vibrant colors and unique flavors?

Baking Notes for Snowball Cookies

Common pitfalls to avoid

When making this snowball cookies recipe, watch out for overmixing the dough. This can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender bites you desire. Also, chilling the dough is crucial; don’t skip it, as this helps the cookies maintain their shape. Lastly, ensure not to underbake — they should just start to golden.

Tips for perfect texture and flavor

For the best flavor, consider toasting your pecans before chopping. This simple step enhances their nuttiness. When rolling the cookies, keep them uniform in size for even baking. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or swapping in your favorite nuts for a unique twist. Remember, freshly sifted confectioners' sugar gives a beautiful finish!

Serving suggestions for Snowball Cookies

Pairing ideas with beverages

To enhance your snowball cookies experience, consider pairing them with delightful beverages. A freshly brewed cup of coffee or creamy hot chocolate complements the buttery richness of the cookies perfectly. For a fun twist, try serving them with a chilled glass of almond milk. The nutty flavor mirrors the subtle notes of the toasted pecans (if you choose to include them in your snowball cookies recipe).

Presentation tips for special occasions

When it comes to presentation, these cookies shine during gatherings! Place your snowball cookies on a decorative platter, and sprinkle some extra confectioners’ sugar on top for that festive touch. Adding edible glitter or seasonal sprinkles can make them pop even more. For extra flair, consider wrapping them individually in clear bags tied with colorful ribbons, perfect for gifting or party favors.

Time Details for Snowball Cookies

Preparation Time

The preparation time for this delightful snowball cookies recipe is about 45 minutes. This includes mixing your ingredients and rolling the dough into balls. Don't worry, it’s a straightforward process!

Baking Time

Once your cookie dough is ready, bake these beauties for 15 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them for that perfect golden-brown bottom.

Total Time

From start to finish, you’re looking at a total time of 1 hour. This includes chilling the dough for 30 minutes. It’s a small investment for a batch of cookies that will wow your friends and family! If you want to learn more about cookie preparation times, check out resources like The Spruce Eats for tips on baking timing.

Nutritional information for Snowball Cookies

Calories

Each delightful snowball cookie contains approximately 90 calories. This makes them a perfect bite-sized treat to enjoy during the festive season or at any gathering without too much guilt!

Sugar Content

The sugar content in these cookies is around 5 grams per cookie, primarily coming from the confectioners’ sugar used both in the dough and for rolling. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider enjoying them in moderation or serving them to friends and family.

Servings per Batch

This snowball cookies recipe yields about 36 cookies, making it ideal for sharing or saving some for later. With a delightful texture and flavor, these cookies often vanish quickly, so plan on making another batch if you're serving a crowd!

For more tips on baking delicious cookies, check out resources from The Kitchn and Food Network for inspiration and variations!

FAQs about Snowball Cookies

How can I ensure my snowball cookies are soft?

To achieve that wonderfully soft texture in your snowball cookies recipe, focus on a few key steps. First, ensure that your butter is at room temperature before mixing; this will help incorporate air into the dough, creating a lighter texture. Additionally, avoid over-mixing once you add the flour. Overworking the dough can lead to a denser cookie. And remember to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking; this helps them hold their shape and results in a more tender bite.

What’s the best way to store snowball cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.

Can I make snowball cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to three days in advance and keep it in the fridge. If you’re short on time, you can also freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them directly into the oven, adding an extra minute to the baking time. Interested in more tips on freezing cookie dough? Check out this freezing guide.

Conclusion on Snowball Cookies

Why You Need to Try This Recipe Today!

There’s no better time to whip up these delicious snowball cookies than now! With just five simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor will leave everyone craving more. Plus, the versatility offered by optional add-ins like pecans or assorted nuts means you can easily customize them to your liking. Don’t wait—make this snowball cookies recipe part of your holiday traditions or just a sweet treat for yourself!