Snowball cookies, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or Russian tea cakes, are a classic holiday treat that’s incredibly easy to make. These delicate, crumbly cookies are coated in powdered sugar, giving them a beautiful snowy appearance that’s perfect for the festive season. With their buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, snowball cookies are sure to become a new family favorite.
Gather Your Ingredients:
For a batch of these delightful snowball cookies, you’ll need:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar, plus more for rolling
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans (optional)
Tools of the Trade:
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack
Let’s Get Baking:
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Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Make sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
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Incorporate dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix the dough.
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Flavor and mix-ins: Stir in the vanilla extract and pecans (if using).
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Shape and bake: Scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place the cookie balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
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The snowball effect: While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in confectioners’ sugar until fully coated. Once cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for an extra snowy finish.
Snowball cookies on a baking sheet
Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies:
- Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling can prevent spreading during baking.
- If the dough is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it comes together.
- For a nutty variation, try using different nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- Store snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
FAQs about Snowball Cookies:
Q: Can I freeze snowball cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: My cookies turned out flat. What happened?
A: This could be due to overmixing the dough or not chilling it long enough. Make sure to mix the dough until just combined and chill it for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but omit the added salt in the recipe.
Snowball cookies on a platter
Snowball cookies are a delightful and festive treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With their buttery flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and beautiful snowy appearance, these cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering or special occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create some baking magic! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations and tag us on social media. Happy baking!
