These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth holiday classics. Made with buttery dough, finely chopped pecans, and rolled in powdered sugar, they’re soft, nutty, and sweet with just the right amount of crunch. Perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or homemade gifts, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is for cookie lovers who want an easy, no-fail holiday baking recipe. Whether you call them Snowball Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, or Mexican Wedding Cookies, they’re a must-have for anyone who loves old-fashioned Christmas treats.
Why You’ll Love It
- Buttery, nutty flavor that melts in your mouth.
- Just 6 simple ingredients.
- A festive cookie recipe that looks like little snowballs.
- Great for make-ahead baking and gifting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar
- In a bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla.
- Add dry ingredients
- Stir in flour, salt, and pecans until a soft dough forms.
- Shape cookies
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Bake until set
- Bake 12–15 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden.
- Roll in sugar
- While still warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar. Let cool, then roll again for a snowy coating.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl & hand/stand mixer
- Baking sheet with 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.
- Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving if stored.
FAQ
Q: Can I use other nuts?
Yes—walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts work well.
Q: Why roll twice in sugar?
The first roll sticks to the warm cookie; the second adds the snowy, festive look.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely—they stay fresh for days and freeze beautifully.
Conclusion
These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are a true holiday classic—sweet, nutty, and irresistibly soft. With their snowy powdered sugar finish, they’re the perfect Christmas cookie recipe for gifting, sharing, and enjoying with family.
Enjoy !!
