Got it 👍 You want a long, detailed recipe post that feels complete — with introduction, history, ingredients, methods, conclusion, and even a touch of nostalgia and “lovers” (meaning: who will love the recipe). I’ll craft it for you just like a food blog post.
Here’s a full version you can use 👇
Grandma’s Holiday Butterball Cookies (Snowball Cookies) ❄️🍪
Introduction
There are recipes that stay with us forever, not because they’re extravagant or complicated, but because they carry with them the warmth of tradition, family, and love. Butterball cookies, also known as snowball cookies or Russian tea cakes, are one of those treasured holiday classics. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are buttery, nutty, and dusted with a blanket of powdered sugar — looking just like little snowballs. For many families, including mine, they were a staple at Christmas gatherings.
I remember sneaking these cookies from my grandma’s holiday tray when no one was looking, trying not to leave powdered sugar on my face as evidence. They’re simple yet luxurious, and every bite feels like nostalgia wrapped in sweetness.
History & Formation of the Recipe
Butterball cookies have European roots, appearing in different forms around the world:
- In Mexico, they’re called Polvorones.
- In Russia, Tea Cakes.
- In the Southern U.S., simply Snowball Cookies.
No matter the name, the base remains the same: butter, sugar, flour, and nuts. They were often served with tea or coffee and became a holiday favorite because they looked like snowballs when dusted with powdered sugar. Their “formation” is just as delightful as their taste — little round bites rolled twice in sugar for that snowy, festive finish.
Ingredients (Makes about 30 cookies)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (traditionally pecans or walnuts)
Optional: A pinch of cinnamon for warmth
Method & Instructions
Step 1 – Cream the Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with ½ cup powdered sugar until light and creamy. Mix in vanilla extract.
Step 2 – Build the Dough
Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until combined. Fold in the finely chopped nuts. The dough will be slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Step 3 – Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, roll tablespoon-sized portions into small balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
Step 4 – Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until set but not browned. They should be pale.
Step 5 – First Sugar Roll
While still warm, gently roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Be careful — they’re delicate when hot.
Step 6 – Second Sugar Roll
Once cooled completely, roll them in powdered sugar again to achieve that snowy, festive coating.
Lovers of This Recipe ❤️
- Holiday Enthusiasts → because these cookies look like snowballs and feel like Christmas magic.
- Nut Lovers → the pecans or walnuts give a rich, earthy flavor.
- Sweet Tooths → melt-in-your-mouth buttery sweetness in every bite.
- Nostalgic Bakers → anyone who remembers sneaking cookies at family gatherings will fall in love all over again.
Conclusion
Butterball cookies are a timeless treat — simple, elegant, and filled with love. They don’t just feed the sweet tooth; they feed the soul. Every bite brings back cherished memories of family, togetherness, and holiday joy. Share them with friends, make them for gatherings, or bake them on a quiet afternoon when your heart craves a little warmth.
Because some recipes aren’t just recipes — they’re traditions carried from one generation to the next. 💕
Would you like me to make a variation section too (like chocolate-dipped, almond-flavored, or even hazelnut spread-filled) so it looks like a “modern food blog upgrade”?