These Classic Snowball Cookies are buttery, nutty, melt-in-your-mouth delights coated in powdered sugar that look just like little snowballs. Known by many names—Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Butterballs—these cookies are a staple of holiday baking and a must-have on any Christmas cookie tray.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for holiday bakers, cookie lovers, and anyone who wants a no-fail Christmas cookie recipe that always impresses. It’s also great for kids to help with, since rolling the warm cookies in powdered sugar feels like making snowballs indoors.
Why You’ll Love It
- Only 6 ingredients—simple and affordable.
- Light, buttery texture with a nutty crunch.
- Perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, and holiday parties.
- Freezer-friendly and stays fresh for weeks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar
- In a large bowl, beat butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
- Mix dry ingredients
- Stir in flour, salt, and chopped nuts until dough comes together.
- Shape cookies
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Bake until set
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cookies are firm but not browned.
- Roll in sugar
- While warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar. Let cool, then roll again for a snowy finish.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- Baking sheet & parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
- Refresh by dusting with extra powdered sugar before serving.
FAQ
Q: Can I use different nuts?
Yes—pecans, walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts all work.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
Swap with a gluten-free flour blend and they’ll still turn out delicious.
Q: Why roll twice in sugar?
The first roll sticks to the warm cookies, while the second gives them that classic snowy coating.
Conclusion
These Classic Snowball Cookies are buttery, nutty, and sweet little bites of holiday joy. With their festive powdered sugar coating, they’re the perfect Christmas cookie recipe for gifting, parties, or enjoying by the fireplace.
Enjoy !!
