As the holidays approach, the scent of baking cookies wafts through my home, evoking memories of cozy family gatherings. One treat that never fails to steal the show is my Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies. These little delights are not only a feast for the senses but also a joy to make, offering a rich, buttery flavor paired with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that leaves you yearning for more. The way they transform from simple dough into fluffy, powdered-sugar-kissed treats captivates me every time. Within just 35 minutes, these cookies go from mixing bowl to your holiday dessert platter, making them an effortless addition to any festivities. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these snowball cookies promise to turn even the simplest moments into something truly special. Grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure!
Why are Buttery Pecan Snowballs irresistible?
Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These cookies offer a delightful experience, crumbling with every bite while leaving you wanting more.
Quick and easy: With only 35 minutes from start to finish, even novice bakers can whip up a batch effortlessly.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings, they add a festive touch that impresses family and friends alike.
Customizable: Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or almonds, allowing each batch to reflect your personal taste.
Versatile serving: They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or hot cocoa, making any occasion feel special.
Ready to elevate your baking game? Check out our expert tips for an even more delightful experience with these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies!
Buttery Pecan Snowball Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for the ultimate Buttery Pecan Snowballs:
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies; can be substituted with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps create their delicate, snowball-like texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; for the best results, always use pure vanilla extract.
- All-Purpose Flour – Supplies structure for your cookies; use a gluten-free flour blend if you’re aiming for a gluten-free treat.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor; no substitutions necessary here.
- Pecans – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; feel free to swap these out with finely chopped walnuts or almonds.
For Coating
- Additional Powdered Sugar – Roll your cookies in this after baking for that fluffy, sweet finish; for extra sweetness, roll them twice!
Embrace the warmth of your kitchen as you prepare to create these delightful treats!
How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowballs
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Prep the Dough:
Begin by beating softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2 minutes. Don’t rush this step—your cookies will thank you! -
Add Vanilla:
Gently mix in vanilla extract until it’s fully incorporated, enhancing that delightful aroma that will soon fill your kitchen. -
Combine Dry Ingredients:
Gradually stir in all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. This will help maintain that melt-in-your-mouth texture. -
Fold in Pecans:
Carefully fold in the finely chopped pecans. If your dough appears a bit soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to handle. -
Shape Cookies:
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This spacing allows the cookies to bake evenly without overcrowding. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 13-15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden, creating that beautiful contrast. -
Coat with Sugar:
Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes. While still warm, roll them in powdered sugar until they’re fully coated, then let them cool completely and roll them again for an extra sweet touch.
Optional: Dust with a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra tasty twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 2 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while maintaining that melt-in-your-mouth texture. To do this, simply follow the recipe until you’ve mixed in the pecans, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling it into balls and baking as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, delicious cookies with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a little sweeter!
Buttery Pecan Snowball Variations
Feel free to sprinkle some creativity into your baking and customize these delightful treats!
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Nut Variety: Swap pecans for chopped walnuts or sliced almonds to add a different nutty flavor. This simple change can enhance the cookies’ textural appeal.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, making these cookies accessible for everyone to enjoy. They’ll still hold their delightful texture!
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Flavor Burst: Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the pecans. Your kitchen will be filled with wonderful scents!
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Chocolatey Delight: Fold in some finely chopped dark or milk chocolate chunks for a sweet indulgence that balances the buttery goodness. Perfect for chocolate lovers!
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the dough for a refreshing flavor that brightens up the cookies. A delightful surprise with every bite!
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Cocoa Dusting: Roll the cookies in a mixture of powdered sugar and cocoa powder for a chocolatey outer layer. It adds a beautiful contrast to the classic flavor.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough to introduce a warm spice note, perfect for holiday enjoyment. It’s a comforting, cozy touch!
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut in place of some pecans for a tropical flair that complements the buttery texture. A fun twist on a classic!
What to Serve with Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
As you savor the delicate sweetness of these cookies, consider pairing them with delightful accompaniments to create a heartwarming spread.
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Rich Hot Cocoa:
A cup of creamy hot cocoa brings a comforting warmth, enhancing the buttery flavors of the cookies. -
Chai Tea:
The aromatic spices of chai tea create a perfect contrast, making each cookie bite even more enjoyable. -
Vanilla Ice Cream:
Scoop a bit of vanilla ice cream alongside for a luscious and indulgent treat that balances the cookies’ sweetness. -
Whipped Cream:
A dollop of light, airy whipped cream complements the snowball cookies, adding a lovely creamy texture without overwhelming their flavor. -
Fresh Berries:
Sprinkling some fresh berries adds a refreshing, tangy note, offering a beautiful burst of color to your dessert spread. -
Caramel Sauce:
Drizzling warm caramel over these snowball cookies elevates them to a new level of richness and decadence. -
Coffee:
The bitter notes of a freshly brewed cup of coffee perfectly contrast the sweet cookies, creating a classic pairing everyone will love. -
Coconut Macaroons:
For a varied texture, serve these alongside chewy coconut macaroons. Both are sweet treats that keep your dessert table enticing!
Let your creativity shine—these pairings will surely make your holiday or cozy gathering feel extra special!
Storage Tips for Buttery Pecan Snowballs
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer colder cookies, keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Freezer: Freeze Buttery Pecan Snowballs in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag for up to three months. Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy the fresh-baked taste, reheat cookies in a warm oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes after thawing, allowing them to regain their delightful softness.
Expert Tips for Buttery Pecan Snowballs
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 20-30 minutes if it feels too soft. This helps create perfectly shaped cookies when rolling.
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Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are just combined for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Warm Coating: Roll cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm for better coating. This ensures the sugar adheres beautifully, enhancing flavor and presentation.
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Batch Variation: Experiment with different nuts! If you want a change from pecans, try walnuts or almonds for a unique twist on your Buttery Pecan Snowballs.
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Baking Sheet Prep: Use a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This simple step will make cleanup a breeze!
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pecans for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing pecans, look for fresh, firm nuts without any dark spots or signs of mold. The shells should be intact, and if buying them shelled, check for a pleasant, nutty aroma. Fresh pecans will enhance the flavor of your Buttery Pecan Snowballs.
How should I store my Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
For the best quality, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks, just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Can I freeze Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies, place them in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag for up to three months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in a 300°F oven for about 5-10 minutes.
What should I do if my cookie dough feels too soft?
No worries! If your dough is too soft to shape, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to roll into balls. Chilling also enhances the flavors, so it’s a win-win!
Are Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies safe for those with nut allergies?
Not so fast! Because these cookies contain pecans, they’re definitely not suitable for anyone with nut allergies. As an alternative, try eliminating the nuts entirely or using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens. Always check with guests to ensure safety!
Can I use a gluten-free option for the flour?
Very much so! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in your Buttery Pecan Snowballs. Just make sure to choose a blend that works well for baking, as this will ensure your cookies maintain the right texture and taste.
Buttery Pecan Snowballs: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Beat softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Gently mix in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually stir in all-purpose flour and salt until just combined.
- Fold in finely chopped pecans, and chill the dough if it feels soft.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake cookies for 13-15 minutes.
- Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar before cooling completely.