Snowball Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Snowball cookies are delicate, buttery treats dusted with powdered sugar that melt in your mouth. These classic cookies are perfect for sharing during the holidays or anytime you want a simple, satisfying sweet bite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour (white, spelt, whole wheat pastry, or gluten-free blend)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans (optional)
• 1 cup butter or coconut oil
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• Additional powdered sugar or cocoa powder for rolling (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl or stand mixer, beat the butter together with the powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, stir together the flour and chopped nuts. Gradually mix this into the butter and sugar until a dough forms.
3. Step 3: Shape the dough into small balls and place them evenly spaced on a cookie sheet.
4. Step 4: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly browned but still pale.
5. Step 5: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in a bowl of powdered sugar or cocoa powder to coat. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• You can omit the nuts for a nut-free version, or try different nuts like almonds or pecans to vary the flavor.
• Use a gluten-free flour blend if needed, but avoid flours not listed here as the texture may change significantly.
• Substitute coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free option, but the flavor and texture will be a bit different.
• For a chocolate twist, roll the cookies in cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar after baking.

Storage

Store snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw completely before rolling in powdered sugar. To refresh, warm cookies slightly before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of flour?

This recipe works well with white, spelt, whole wheat pastry, or gluten-free blends like Bob’s. Other flours may alter the texture and outcome, so proceed with caution and expect some variation.

Why do I need to roll the cookies in powdered sugar while warm?

Rolling warm cookies in powdered sugar allows the coating to stick better and creates the classic snowball appearance. If you wait until they are cold, the sugar won’t adhere as well.

Snowball Cookies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 145 reviews

Delicious and buttery Snowball Cookies featuring a delicate crumb and a nutty crunch, perfect for festive occasions or an everyday treat. These cookies are tender, lightly golden, and coated in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups flour (white, spelt, whole wheat pastry, or gluten-free blend)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts (or almonds or pecans, optional)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dough)
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling (optional, can substitute with cocoa powder)

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup butter (or coconut oil)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cookies evenly and gently.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a medium bowl or stand mixer, combine the butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Beat the mixture until it is creamy and well combined, ensuring a smooth base for your cookie dough.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the flour and finely chopped nuts (if using). This step ensures even distribution of nuts throughout the dough.
4. Combine All Ingredients: Gradually mix the flour and nut mixture into the creamed butter and sugar to form a cohesive dough. The dough should hold together well but remain soft.
5. Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them spaced apart on an ungreased cookie sheet to allow for slight expansion during baking.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned but the tops remain pale, indicating a delicate texture.
7. Coat Cookies: While still warm, roll each cookie in additional powdered sugar (or cocoa powder) to form a snowy coating that enhances both flavor and appearance.
8. Cool: Transfer the coated cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the coating set and the cookies to firm up just right.

Notes

• You may omit the nuts if preferred; the cookies will still be delicious but without the added crunch.
• Substituting flours outside the recommended types or using low-fat butter spreads has not been tested, so proceed with caution if experimenting.
• For a chocolate twist, consider rolling the cookies in cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar.
• Ensure cookies are rolled while warm for best coating adherence.

Keywords: Snowball Cookies, holiday cookies, nut cookies, buttery cookies, powdered sugar cookies, festive desserts