Name: Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies You’ll Love This Holiday Season
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Powdered Sugar (for coating); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (can substitute with gluten-free); 1 cup Finely Chopped Pecans (or walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (reduce if using salted butter)

Every holiday season, I find myself enveloped in a delightful whirlwind of flour, butter, and the comforting aroma of baking cookies. One of the stars in my lineup of festive treats? Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies. These enchanting bites melt in your mouth, thanks to their tender crumb and nutty richness, all cloaked in a snowy layer of powdered sugar. What’s more, these cookies are a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for bustling gatherings, cozy tea parties, or thoughtful gifts. Plus, they evoke a sense of nostalgia that transports me back to childhood kitchen escapades. Ready to create these holiday classics in your own home? Stick around—your taste buds will thank you!

Why are Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies special?

Unforgettable Flavor: Each bite is packed with a rich, nutty taste from the pecans and a hint of sweetness from the powdered sugar.

Effortless Preparation: You don’t need to be a pro baker to enjoy these treats—just follow a few simple steps!

Holiday Cheer: Perfect for gatherings, they evoke festive warmth that brings everyone together.

Versatile Options: Don’t hesitate to try variations, such as using walnuts or adding a splash of almond extract for a unique twist.

Storage Made Easy: These cookies keep well, ideal for making ahead of the holiday rush, or to save some for yourself.

Whether you’re indulging with a cup of coffee or gifting a sweet treat, these Pumpkin Sugar Cookies will definitely elevate your holiday spirit!

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful treats!

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use softened, not melted, for the best texture.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness while helping to create a nice cookie structure.
Powdered Sugar – Coats the cookies with a snowy appearance and offers a touch of sweetness.
Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor; pair it with almond extract for an extra depth if desired.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the cookie dough; can be substituted with a gluten-free blend for those who need it.
Finely Chopped Pecans – Introduces nuttiness and texture; feel free to swap with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts if you prefer.
Salt – Enhances the flavor balance; if using salted butter, reduce the added salt accordingly.

Enjoy crafting these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies that will surely leave a lasting impression on your holiday gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies bake evenly right from the start. While the oven is heating, gather your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer on medium speed, until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which helps create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture so beloved in Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Dry Ingredients
Once the butter mixture is creamy, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of finely chopped pecans, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough that captures all the delightful flavors of the butter and nuts.

Step 4: Roll the Dough into Balls
Using your hands, take portions of the dough and roll them into small balls, roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place these dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This space allows for gentle spreading, giving your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies their characteristic shape.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when the edges feel set but the tops remain pale and not browned. This is essential for achieving that soft, crumbly texture that makes these cookies irresistible.

Step 6: Cooling and Coating
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This will make them easier to handle. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to create that delightful snowy coating reminiscent of winter wonderlands.

Step 7: Final Powdered Sugar Coating
After the cookies have cooled completely, give them another roll in powdered sugar for a thicker coating. This second layer enhances the sweetness and creates that signature appearance of Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies. Place the finished cookies on a serving platter and marvel at their festive charm!

Make Ahead Options

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are an ideal treat for busy home cooks who want to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply roll it into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve these delightful cookies, just take them out directly from the fridge and bake as directed; they’ll taste just as fresh and delicious! Additionally, you can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months, ensuring your snowy treats are always ready for gatherings or a sweet craving. Just let them thaw at room temperature and roll them in powdered sugar again before serving for that perfect finish!

What to Serve with Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?

Imagine a cozy holiday gathering, where the scent of baking fills the air and laughter dances like snowflakes. Enhance your festive experience with these delightful treats!

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, creamy cup of hot chocolate perfectly complements the nutty sweetness of the cookies, creating a comforting indulgence.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea pair wonderfully with the buttery richness, adding warmth and a touch of exotic flavor to your snack time.
Zesty Citrus Salad: A fresh citrus salad brightens the palate and provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, crumbly cookies. The tartness balances the richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Add a scoop of silky vanilla ice cream beside your cookies for an incredible mix of textures. The cool creaminess enhances the overall flavor experience.
Christmas Punch: A light, fruity Christmas punch with cranberry and orange flavors is festive and invigorating, perfect for sipping alongside these delightful cookies.
Gingerbread Latte: The spiced warmth of a gingerbread latte harmonizes beautifully with the nutty cookies, inviting you to savor each moment of the holiday season.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a creamy, decadent finish to your spread, ensuring your guests remain enchanted by the variety of flavors.
Hot Apple Cider: Sip on spiced hot apple cider for a delightful pairing. The warm spices mirror the cozy mood these cookies provide during your festive celebrations.

Storage Tips for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies or unbaked dough in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm again, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Thawing: If frozen, thaw cookies in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with your cookie-making adventure and embrace these delightful twists!

Nut Choices: Substitute pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor that still delivers a wonderful crunch.
A swap from pecans to walnuts opens up a whole new world of taste and texture!
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon or orange zest for a bright, zesty kick.
The citrus adds a light freshness that beautifully complements the nutty richness of the cookies.
Flavored Extracts: Try a splash of almond extract in place of some vanilla for a lovely aromatic twist.
Almond and pecans paired together create a symphony of flavors that screams holiday cheer!
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs.
This way, everyone can indulge in the joy of these cookies without sacrificing flavor or texture!
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for a decadent finishing touch.
The rich chocolate adds a luscious contrast to the snowy sweetness of the cookies.
Spiced Snowballs: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for warm, festive spices.
Spices amp up the cozy vibe of your holiday baking and bring enticing aromas to your kitchen!
Mini Cookie Version: Roll smaller balls for bite-sized cookie delights perfect for sharing or snacking.
These tiny versions are not only adorable but also make great party treats or gifts!
Savory Twist: Mix in a touch of finely grated cheese, like Parmesan, for an intriguing savory spin.
This unexpected element heightens the flavor profile and could be a delightful conversation starter!

As you explore these variations, you might even find your next favorite recipe! And if you’re in the mood for more seasonal baking, don’t forget to try out these Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies or Pumpkin White Cookies for delightful holiday treats!

Expert Tips for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming; this helps achieve the desired light and tender texture in the cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined to preserve their soft crumb.
Nut Choices: Use finely chopped pecans to avoid cracks while baking. Larger pieces may disrupt the cookie’s shape and texture.
Powdered Sugar Coating: Don’t skip the second coating of powdered sugar after the cookies cool—this enhances both their sweetness and their snowy appearance.
Bake Watch: Keep a close eye during baking; cookies should be set but not browned. This subtle difference makes all the texture in Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, freeze the baked cookies or unbaked dough.

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pecans for the cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing pecans, look for those that are fresh and have a pleasant, nutty aroma. Avoid any that are discolored or have dark spots, as this can indicate rancidity. The best pecans should be firm and crisp, not soft or shriveled.

How should I store Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
For optimal storage, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can stay fresh for up to 1 week. If you want to prolong their deliciousness, freeze them! Just make sure they’re in a freezer-safe container and they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Can I freeze unbaked dough for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze the unbaked dough, roll it into balls as you would for baking. Then, place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until firm. After an hour, transfer the frozen balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time!

Why are my cookies spreading too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread more than you’d like, consider a few possibilities. Make sure your butter is softened and not melted; melted butter can cause cookies to spread excessively. Additionally, chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape. Finally, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly, as too little can lead to spread.

Are Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies suitable for someone with nut allergies?
Not at all! Given that pecans are a key ingredient in this recipe, it’s best to avoid these cookies for anyone with nut allergies. However, if you’re looking for a nut-free option, try substituting the pecans with a mix of sunflower seeds or seeds similar to those used. Just acknowledge that the flavor will shift a bit without the nutty richness.

Can I use different types of flour for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it includes xanthan gum to ensure the right texture. When using alternative flours, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly, so keep an eye on the dough consistency as you mix. Enjoy experimenting!