If you’re a fan of soft, buttery cookies that melt in your mouth and leave you coated in powdered sugar, you’re in for a treat! Learn how to make the easiest Snowball Cookies. These festive delights are the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Overhead image of a bowl full of Snowball Cookies

Why You'll Love This Tasty Treat

Simple. Made with a handful of pantry staples, these cookies come together effortlessly.
Festive. Their powdered sugar coating resembles freshly fallen snow, making them a holiday favorite.
Versatile. Customize with nuts, extracts, or even chocolate chips for a personalized twist.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth. A tender, crumbly texture that’s utterly irresistible.

Whether you’re baking for a Christmas party, gifting to friends, or indulging in a quiet moment, Snowball Cookies are guaranteed to impress.

What Do Snowball Cookies Taste Like?

Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, have been a cherished treat for generations.

The buttery shortbread texture paired with the sweetness of powdered sugar creates a nostalgic, satisfying bite.

Why Are They Called Snowball Cookies?

Snowball cookies get their name from their appearance. These delightful treats are small, round, and coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar, giving them a resemblance to snowballs.

The powdered sugar not only adds a sweet finish but also creates the illusion of a snow-covered sphere, especially when they are neatly arranged on a plate.

Ingredients You'll Need

Unsalted Butter- Softened to room temperature, this provides the base for the cookies’ rich flavor.
Powdered Sugar- Used in the dough and for rolling, it adds sweetness and a snowy finish.
All-Purpose Flour- The foundation of the cookies, ensuring a tender, crumbly texture.
Vanilla Extract- Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
Pecans (or Walnuts)- Chopped finely, these add a delightful nutty crunch.
Salt- Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.

How To Make Snowball Cookies

Prepare the Dough. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and salt, blending until a dough forms. Stir in the finely chopped nuts.
Chill the Dough. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes. This step ensures the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Shape the Cookies. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake. Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Allow them to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
Roll in Powdered Sugar. While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Once fully cooled, roll them again for a thick, snowy coating.

Close up image of Snowball Cookies in a bowl with Christmas decor surrounding it

Tips And Tricks

Snowball cookies are a classic holiday treat that’s deceptively simple to make, but a few tips and tricks can take them to the next level. Follow these helpful hints to ensure your cookies are always light, buttery, and coated in just the right amount of powdered sugar:

Measure Flour Correctly. Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the cookies dense.
Chill the Dough. Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading and keeps them perfectly round.
Double Rolling. Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar ensures a beautiful, thick coating.
Finely Chop Nuts. Larger chunks can cause the cookies to crack. Use a food processor for uniformity.

Variations

Snowball cookies are a versatile treat that can easily be customized to suit your tastes or the occasion. From different nut options to unique flavor additions, there’s no shortage of ways to make this classic cookie your own. Here are some fun and creative variations to try:

Chocolate Chip- Add mini chocolate chips instead of nuts for a kid-friendly twist.
Almond Joy- Swap the pecans for almonds and add a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
Spiced- Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for warm holiday flavors.
Gluten-Free- Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a celiac-friendly version.

What To Enjoy With Snowball Cookies

Snowball cookies are a delightful treat on their own, but pairing them with complementary flavors and textures can elevate the experience. Here are some ideas:

Hot Chocolate- The rich, creamy drink complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Eggnog- A festive pairing for holiday gatherings.
Coffee or Tea- Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Fruit Platter- Balances the sweetness with a refreshing contrast.

How Long Do They Last?

Snowball cookies can last for about 1 week when stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container.

Keeping them sealed helps maintain their tender texture and prevents the powdered sugar coating from absorbing moisture.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes! These cookies freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw and re-roll in powdered sugar to refresh their snowy coating.

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