Classic Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth cookies rolled in powdered sugar until they look like little snowballs. Made with simple pantry ingredients and chopped nuts, these cookies are a timeless favorite during the holidays, but they’re just as good any time of year. They’re delicate, not too sweet, and perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple, classic cookie with no fuss
- Soft, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth
- Not overly sweet, perfect balance of butter and sugar
- Easy to make ahead and store well
- Ideal for holidays, cookie boxes, and gifting
- Uses basic ingredients you probably already have
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
- ¾ cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Recommended Baking Tools
Cookie Scoop Set – helps you scoop the dough evenly for perfect snowball cookies.
Baking Sheet Set – gives even heat and prevents cookies from burning.
Silicone Baking Mats – stop sticking and make baking easier.
Measuring Cups & Spoons – help you measure ingredients accurately.
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
- Add flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped nuts evenly.
- Scoop dough and roll into 1-inch balls.
- Place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until set but not browned.
- Cool for 5 minutes, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.
- Let cool completely and roll again in powdered sugar.
Cooking Notes
Snowball cookies should stay pale, do not overbake. If they brown, they will lose their soft, tender texture. Rolling them in sugar while warm helps the first layer stick.
Variations
- Use almonds or hazelnuts instead of pecans
- Add ½ tsp cinnamon for a warm flavor
- Mix in mini chocolate chips for a twist
- Add orange or lemon zest for brightness
- Make them gluten-free using a 1:1 gluten-free flour
Tips
- Finely chop the nuts for the best texture
- Use room-temperature butter for smooth dough
- Don’t skip the second sugar coating, it’s key
- Let cookies cool slightly before rolling to avoid breaking
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hot tea, coffee, or cocoa
- Add to holiday cookie platters
- Package in gift tins for Christmas
- Pair with other classic cookies like shortbread
- Dust with extra powdered sugar just before serving
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: About 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
Approximate values
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
FAQs
Why are they called snowball cookies?
Because their round shape and powdered sugar coating resemble snowballs.
Can I make them without nuts?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different.
Do they freeze well?
Yes. Freeze baked cookies without sugar, then roll in powdered sugar after thawing.
Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes. Chill the dough for up to 48 hours before baking.
Why roll them twice in sugar?
The first coating melts slightly; the second gives a snowy finish.
Conclusion
Classic Snowball Cookies are a must-have for any cookie lover. With their buttery flavor, soft texture, and snowy sugar coating, they’re simple yet unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a nostalgic treat, these cookies never disappoint.