Pecan Snowball Cookies

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Of course 💞 Here’s a big, cozy, full-feature recipe for Pecan Snowball Cookies, written like a holiday favorite you’d see passed down through generations — rich with story, method, and love.

Pecan Snowball Cookies

Buttery, nutty, melt-in-your-mouth bites of pure comfort

Introduction

Pecan Snowball Cookies are the kind of treat that quietly steals the show. Small, delicate, and dusted in snowy powdered sugar, they practically melt the moment they touch your tongue. These cookies don’t shout — they whisper warmth, tradition, and love.

Perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, tea time, or cozy evenings, snowball cookies feel like something made in a quiet kitchen while laughter drifts in from the next room.

A Little History

Snowball cookies have traveled the world under many names:

  • Mexican Wedding Cookies
  • Russian Tea Cakes
  • Butter Balls

Despite the different titles, the heart of the cookie remains the same — butter, nuts, and sugar, baked gently and rolled in powdered sugar to resemble soft snowballs. They’ve long symbolized celebration, hospitality, and homemade care.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (traditional versions often use powdered sugar, but this keeps your original style)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans
  • ÂĽ teaspoon salt

For Rolling

  • Âľ to 1 cup powdered sugar

Formation: The Secret to Snowball Texture

Snowball cookies are not meant to spread or brown heavily. Their beauty lies in:

  • Soft butter (never melted)
  • Finely chopped pecans for smooth texture
  • Gentle mixing to keep them tender

The dough should feel soft, slightly crumbly, but hold together when rolled.

Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates the cookie’s tender structure.

Step 2: Add Flavor

Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Add Pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Methods: Shaping & Baking

Rolling Method

  • Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough
  • Roll gently into smooth balls
  • Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing slightly apart

Baking Method

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes
  • Cookies should be set but not browned

The bottoms may be lightly golden — that’s perfect.

The Double Sugar Method (Classic Touch)

  1. Let cookies cool for 5 minutes
  2. Roll warm cookies gently in powdered sugar
  3. Allow cookies to cool completely
  4. Roll again in powdered sugar for that iconic snowy finish

This double coating gives the cookies their signature look and sweetness.

Methods with Lovers ❤️ (Serving & Pairing)

Snowball cookies are made for sharing — especially with people you love.

Perfect with:

  • Hot tea or herbal blends
  • Coffee or cappuccino
  • Hot chocolate
  • A quiet moment by the window

Serve them:

  • On holiday cookie trays
  • At weddings and celebrations
  • As gifts wrapped in parchment and ribbon

They’re small, so reaching for “just one more” is inevitable.

Lovers of Snowball Cookies

These cookies are adored by:

  • Holiday traditionalists 🎄
  • Nut lovers
  • Minimalist dessert fans
  • Anyone who prefers soft, buttery sweets

They’re especially loved by those who believe less can be more.

Variations for Cookie Lovers

  • Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds
  • Add mini chocolate chips
  • Mix in a pinch of cinnamon
  • Add orange zest for brightness

Conclusion

Pecan Snowball Cookies are proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable memories. They’re gentle, nostalgic, and full of heart — the kind of cookie that disappears quickly but lingers warmly in memory.

Bake them slow. Roll them generously. Share them lovingly.

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