Name: Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies for Cozy Holiday Moments
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, not melted); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting); 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 1 cup finely chopped pecans (can swap with walnuts or almonds); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for a twist); 1 pinch salt (omit if using salted butter)

“Did you catch the lovely aroma wafting from the kitchen?” This was my partner, peeking eagerly over my shoulder as I prepared to roll out a batch of Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle nutty flavor, these holiday delicacies capture the spirit of festive gatherings and cozy evenings at home. Not only are they a quick and easy fix for unexpected guests, but they also add a touch of warmth to any occasion, paired perfectly with hot cocoa or a comforting cup of tea. As I gently coat them in a blanket of powdered sugar, I can’t help but reminisce about the joy they bring to family cookie exchanges and celebrations. Are you ready to sprinkle some holiday magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why are These Cookies Irresistibly Delish?

Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are delicately crumbly, offering that perfect bite that leaves you craving more.

Quick and easy: With simple ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly, ideal for those busy holiday moments.

Versatile treats: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a new flavor twist, making them adaptable for every taste.

Perfect for sharing: These cookies are crowd-pleasers, making them ideal for gifting or cookie exchanges, especially when paired with hot cocoa or tea.

Festively appealing: Their snowy powdered sugar coating not only adds sweetness but also creates a delightful visual for your holiday gatherings, reminiscent of a snowy wonderland.

Stress-free storage: Enjoy them fresh or freeze unbaked dough for later, ensuring you’re always ready for surprise guests. If you’re seeking more delightful treats, don’t miss my Soft Chewy Cookies or the festive Zebra Cookies Discover.

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Ingredients

• Dive into the joy of holiday baking with these delightful treats!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Ensures the cookies stay rich and moist; soft, but not melted, gives the best texture.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives that snowy finish; granulated sugar can work in a pinch, but the texture will change.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the dough; substitute with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Finely Chopped Pecans – Adds wonderful crunch and nuttiness; feel free to swap with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the buttery goodness; almond extract can introduce an exciting twist.
Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates all the flavors; omit if using salted butter.

For Dusting

Additional Powdered Sugar – Essential for rolling the cookies after baking to achieve that classic snowy coat!

Embrace the holiday spirit and make these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies a beloved addition to your festive moments!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies bake evenly. While the oven warms up, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, allowing for a smooth cookie-making experience.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light, fluffy, and creamy, which will take about 2-3 minutes. The texture should be smooth, indicating it’s ready for the next ingredients.

Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Next, add a pinch of salt and pour in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and finely chopped pecans, mixing until a soft dough forms. This process should take another 1-2 minutes; aim for a dough that holds together but isn’t sticky, ensuring a perfect texture for your snowball cookies.

Step 4: Shape the Dough
With clean hands, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place each ball about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. You should have about 24 dough balls, all uniform in size to promote even baking. This attention to detail will help maintain the delicate, crumbly texture of the Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the bottoms to turn lightly golden while the tops remain snowy and pale. Removing them from the oven at the right time prevents overbaking, ensuring they stay tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar
After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they’re slightly cooled, roll each cookie in powdered sugar for a first coating. This will give them that signature snowball appearance, enhancing their charm and sweetness.

Step 7: Finish Cooling and Dusting
Allow the cookies to cool completely on the wire rack. Once cooled, give them a second dusting in powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful snowy finish. This step not only elevates their appearance but also enhances the delightful taste of your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; simply roll it into balls and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture and flavor, make sure to chill the dough well, as this helps the cookies hold their shape while baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the fridge—the baking time may just need a minute or two extra. For an effortless holiday delight, simply roll in powdered sugar once cooled, and watch them disappear at every gathering!

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste!

Nutty Alternatives: Swap out pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings its unique flavor and texture to the cookies, enhancing the overall experience. Don’t hesitate to mix and match for a delightful surprise in every bite!
Gluten-Free Delight: To make these cookies gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum. This ensures a tender texture while allowing everyone to enjoy the holiday goodness. It’s a great way to share the love of baking with all your friends and family!
Almond Bliss: Add a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla for a rich, aromatic twist. The subtle flavor pairs beautifully with the nuts, creating a festive flair that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Citrus Zing: Brighten up the flavor by adding a bit of citrus zest, like lemon or orange. This twist brings a refreshing note that balances the richness of the cookies. The hint of citrus will evoke memories of joyful celebrations!
Chocolatey Surprise: Incorporate chocolate chips or chunks into the dough for a touch of sweetness. The chocolate will melt perfectly into the warm cookies, creating a decadent treat that will keep you coming back for more.
Coconut Twist: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flavor that will make your cookies stand out. This adds an unexpected texture and a hint of sweetness, making them a delightful addition to your cookie platter.
Extra Powdered Sugar: After the first dusting, try rolling the cooled cookies in a mixture of powdered sugar and cocoa powder. This will not only give a chocolatey hue but also add a unique flavor that enhances the holiday feel.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warming spice that complements the pecans beautifully. This little kick will bring a comforting sense of nostalgia to your baking.

Once you’ve found your favorites, don’t forget to indulge alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or tea. And if you’re still on the hunt for more cookie inspiration, my Marshmallow Swirl Cookies and Cream Pie Cookies are perfect companions for your holiday treats!

Expert Tips for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, as this allows for better incorporation and a uniform texture in your cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients until just combined; overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of the tender texture we love in Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies.
Uniform Size: Roll dough balls to the same size for consistent baking; this prevents some cookies from flattening while others remain rounded.
Cooling Period: Allow cookies to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar; this helps the sugar adhere better and keeps their snowy appearance intact.
Storage Solution: For longer freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature; if freezing, shape and freeze the dough for future baking.

How to Store and Freeze Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your unbaked dough or baked cookies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen baked cookies, let them thaw at room temperature, then roll in powdered sugar again before serving for that fresh taste and snowy appearance.

Cookies on-the-go: For busy days, pre-roll cookie dough balls and freeze them. Simply bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a quick sweet treat!

What to Serve with Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

The holiday spirit beckons with delightful pairings that enhance the sweetness of these dreamy treats.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy sweetness of hot cocoa beautifully complements the nutty flavor of the cookies, creating a cozy experience.
Espresso: A bold shot of espresso balances the sweetness perfectly, offering a delightful contrast that awakens your taste buds.
Festive Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a fruit salad adds a burst of freshness and color, enhancing the festive spirit of the occasion.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream creates a delightful textural contrast, melting blissfully with each bite of the cookies.
Spiced Tea: The warming spices in a cup of chai tea evoke holiday nostalgia and pair wonderfully with the buttery richness of the cookies.
Chocolate Ganache Dip: For a decadent twist, a light dip in chocolate ganache elevates the experience, combining rich flavors for an indulgent treat.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness, adding vibrancy and a touch of holiday zest to your festive spread.
Milk: Whether it’s classic cow’s milk or a nut-based alternative, the creaminess softens the richness of the cookies, making for a comforting pairing.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light, airy whipped cream adds a luscious layer of sweetness, making every bite of your snowball cookies even more delightful.
Peppermint Bark: For an extra holiday touch, serve with pieces of peppermint bark; the minty crunch makes for a festive, flavorful combo.

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of butter should I use for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Use unsalted butter, ideally softened to room temperature. This allows for easy creaming with the powdered sugar and ensures a rich flavor. Avoid melted butter, as it can lead to a greasy texture.

How do I store Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh, you can also separate layers with parchment paper. This will help maintain their delicate crumb structure, ensuring they stay delicious for every bite!

Can I freeze Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze both unbaked dough and baked cookies. To freeze unbaked dough, roll into balls and spread them on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Baked cookies should be wrapped tightly in plastic, followed by aluminum foil, and can be stored for up to 3 months.

Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?
This might happen if your butter was too warm or if the dough wasn’t chilled before baking. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and if your dough feels too soft to shape, pop it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. This step will help maintain their shape while baking.

Can I use different nuts in these cookies?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the finely chopped pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts based on your preference. Just keep in mind that each type of nut will bring its unique flavor. If you’re unsure, I always suggest testing it out with a small batch first!

Are Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies suitable for individuals with nut allergies?
Since pecans are a key ingredient, these cookies are not suitable for those with nut allergies. However, you can create a nut-free version by simply omitting the nuts entirely, though it’s important to adjust the texture slightly, possibly adding more flour to compensate.