Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix in Flour and Salt: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in Nuts: Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans (or walnuts) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
- Shape Dough: Using a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon, scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The cookies should remain pale in color.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Coat the Snowballs
- Roll in Powdered Sugar: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in the powdered sugar until they are fully coated.
- Cool Completely: Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Second Coating: Once the cookies are completely cool, roll them in the powdered sugar again to ensure a thick, snowy coating.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Arrange the snowballs on a festive plate or tray.
- Store: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Snowballs
- Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is properly softened for easy creaming and a smooth dough.
- Finely Chopped Nuts: Finely chop the nuts for even distribution throughout the cookies. You can use a food processor to achieve a fine texture.
- Double Coating: The double coating of powdered sugar gives the snowballs their signature snowy appearance and enhances their sweetness.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of buttery, nutty dough and the sweet, powdery coating makes these snowballs irresistible. The light and crumbly texture, paired with the delicate sweetness, creates a perfect balance. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Variations to Try
- Coconut Snowballs: Substitute the powdered sugar coating with sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Chip Snowballs: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a hint of chocolate flavor.
- Almond Snowballs: Replace the pecans or walnuts with finely chopped almonds and add a teaspoon of almond extract to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Tea: Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- As Gifts: Package the snowballs in decorative tins or boxes and give them as holiday gifts to friends and family.
- At Parties: Serve them at holiday parties or gatherings as a sweet treat for guests to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
These snowballs are a classic treat that bring a touch of nostalgia and a lot of joy. Their simple yet delicious flavor, combined with their charming appearance, makes them a favorite for many. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful snowballs, and create new memories with every bite!