Looking for a delightful treat to add to your holiday baking recipes? These buttery pecan snowball cookies are a festive favorite that will melt in your mouth. Also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, these pecan snowballs are a must-have during the Christmas season. With their rich, buttery flavor and a generous dusting of powdered sugar, they’re sure to bring joy to your holiday gatherings.
Imagine a cookie that feels like a soft, sweet cloud with a hint of nutty goodness. That’s exactly what these classic snowball cookies offer. The combination of finely chopped pecans and a tender, crumbly texture creates an irresistible bite-sized indulgence that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Classic Pecan Snowball Cookies
These buttery pecan snowball cookies are a delightful treat that many look forward to during the holiday season. Known by various names including Russian tea cakes and Mexican wedding cookies, these festive sweets have become a staple in holiday baking recipes.
The combination of finely chopped pecans alongside a rich buttery flavor creates an indulgent experience, making them a perfect addition to any Christmas cookie platter. Their tender and crumbly texture melts in your mouth, offering a nutty twist that pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
A Festive Baking Experience
Preparing these pecan snowballs can turn any kitchen into a cozy holiday haven. The aroma of butter and toasted pecans fills the air, setting a cheerful mood as you whip up these small delights. With each scoop and roll, the anticipation builds for the moment when they emerge from the oven.
As you dust the warm cookies with powdered sugar, they transform into glorious little snowballs, perfect for sharing with loved ones. This simple act of rolling them in sugar adds a festive touch, making them visually appealing for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients used in this Christmas snowball cookie recipe are straightforward yet crucial. Unsalted butter is the star, contributing to the cookies’ rich flavor and soft texture. Mixed with powdered sugar and finely chopped pecans, these elements create a harmonious blend that defines classic snowball cookies.
Flour brings the right consistency, ensuring the cookies hold their shape without being too dense. A hint of vanilla extract enhances the sweetness, while a touch of salt balances the flavors beautifully. These key components come together to create a treat that is both simple to make and unforgettable.
Perfect for Any Gathering
These pecan powdered sugar balls are not just for Christmas; they are a delightful addition to any festive occasion. Their elegant appearance and rich flavor can elevate any dessert table, making them suitable for birthdays, baby showers, or even a cozy family gathering.
Serving these cookies alongside a hot beverage invites friends and family to indulge in the moment, sharing stories and creating memories. The buttery texture and lovely crunch from the pecans will surely impress anyone who takes a bite.
Tips for Success
To ensure your buttery pecan snowball cookies come out perfectly, keep a few tips in mind. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, as this step is key to achieving the desired texture. Chilling the dough for a short period can also help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
For an extra touch, consider varying the size of your cookies. Smaller bites make for delightful nibbles, while larger versions can be a show-stopping centerpiece. Regardless of the size, rolling them in powdered sugar while warm will create that iconic snowy finish. Enjoy the process, and watch as these charming cookies become a festive favorite!
Classic Pecan Snowball Cookies
This pecan snowball cookie recipe yields melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a delightful buttery flavor and a nutty crunch from the pecans. Dusting them with powdered sugar adds a sweet finish, making them a charming addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, chopped pecans, and salt to the butter mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Form the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Allow them to cool completely before rolling them in sugar again for a snowy finish.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 100kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
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