Snowball Cookies
Indulge in the sweet, buttery goodness of snowball cookies—perfectly round treats that melt in your mouth. These delightful bites are often enjoyed during festive seasons but are a joy to make year-round. With their soft texture and the sweet dusting of powdered sugar, snowball cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table. Let’s dive into the recipe and create these beautiful confections together!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 24 snowball cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 15-20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 100
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Sugars: 3g
– Protein: 1g
This information is based on a single cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Use your hands to form small balls of dough (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before rolling in powdered sugar.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the nuts with chocolate chips for a different flavor. Also, to make the cookies gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Adjust the sugar based on your taste preference.
Serving and Pairings
Serve snowball cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with festive desserts like fruitcake or holiday pies, making them perfect for gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
Store snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. No need to reheat; enjoy them straight from the freezer or at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
- Make sure the butter is softened, not melted.
- Don’t skip the cooling period before rolling in sugar.
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated before baking.
- Use a cookie scoop to maintain uniform size for even baking.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for easier handling.
- Experiment with different nuts for varied flavors.
- For extra sweetness, roll cookies in sugar twice after baking.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note.
FAQs
Can I make snowball cookies ahead of time?
Yes, snowball cookies can be made ahead of time. They store well in an airtight container and can be frozen for later enjoyment.
What can I use instead of nuts?
If you have nut allergies, you can omit the nuts entirely or replace them with chocolate chips or dried fruit.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the bottoms are lightly golden. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I add flavors to the cookies?
Absolutely! You can add almond extract or citrus zest for a unique flavor twist.
What is the best way to store them?
Store snowball cookies in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from getting stale.
Conclusion
Snowball cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Their buttery texture and sweet coating make them irresistible. Whether for a holiday gathering or an everyday snack, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious bites with loved ones!
Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Use your hands to form small balls of dough (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before rolling in powdered sugar.
