Classic Snowball Cookies: A Festive Tradition for Every Occasion
Dive into the delightful world of Snowball Cookies, also affectionately known as Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, or Pecan Sandies. These melt-in-your-mouth confections are an absolute highlight of the holiday season and a beloved treat year-round. With their tender, buttery texture and generous dusting of powdered sugar, they resemble freshly fallen snow, bringing a touch of winter wonderland to any celebration. Simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, these cookies are a timeless classic that evokes warmth, nostalgia, and pure culinary joy.
Unwrapping the Charm of Snowball Cookies
Last year, I experimented with a refreshing twist, creating zesty Lemon Snowball Cookies that were a huge hit. This year, I decided to revisit the pure, unadulterated classic – the non-flavored Snowball cookie, highlighting its inherent buttery goodness and nutty crunch. These cookies are not just a festive staple; they are the epitome of versatile finger-food desserts. Imagine them gracing a holiday party platter, or served on a toothpick for an elegant, mess-free treat that guests can easily enjoy.
My earliest memories of these cookies are deeply rooted in childhood. I vividly recall standing at the kitchen counter, eagerly awaiting my turn to roll the warm, freshly baked cookies in a cloud of powdered sugar. For a child, this was more than a chore; it was a magical, sensory experience, transforming simple dough into dazzling white spheres. The sweet aroma, the soft texture, and the sheer fun of being covered in sugar felt like an integral part of growing up.
Beyond the fun, making these easy cookies also became an unexpected, yet invaluable, lesson in mathematics. Precisely measuring and remeasuring ingredients helped me grasp fractions in a tangible, delicious way. Even today, when I encounter fractions in everyday life, my mind often drifts back to that bustling childhood kitchen, strewn with flour and sugar, a testament to hands-on learning that culminated in a batch of irresistible cookies. It’s a testament to how baking can be a journey of discovery, teaching skills far beyond the culinary realm.
The beauty of Snowball Cookies lies not only in their delightful taste and texture but also in their heartwarming familiarity. They are a cookie that transcends generations, bringing smiles and creating lasting memories. Their simple ingredient list and straightforward preparation make them an accessible baking project for home cooks of all skill levels, ensuring that everyone can partake in this cherished tradition.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Snowball Cookies
Crafting epic Snowball Cookies requires just a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. The magic happens when these basic components come together, transforming into a rich, tender, and irresistibly crumbly cookie. Below is a quick overview; for precise measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, please refer to the complete recipe card at the end of this post.
- Butter: The foundation of these cookies, providing richness, flavor, and that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for optimal creaming.
- Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and to create a fine crumb structure when creamed with butter.
- Vanilla Extract: A crucial flavor enhancer, adding warmth and depth to the cookies. Don’t skip a good quality vanilla!
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cookie dough, creating a tender crumb without being too dense.
- Finely Chopped Almonds: These add a delightful nutty flavor and a subtle crunch, defining the classic Snowball cookie profile. Toasting them lightly beforehand can enhance their aroma and taste.
- Powdered Sugar / Confectioners’ Sugar: The essential coating that gives these cookies their “snowball” appearance and a final touch of delicate sweetness.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, proving that extraordinary flavors often stem from humble origins. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, richness, and texture that makes Snowball Cookies so beloved.
Recommended Equipment for Baking Success
Having the right tools can make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. While many items are standard kitchen staples, a few specific pieces of equipment will truly elevate your Snowball Cookie making experience:
Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl is crucial for combining ingredients without spills. We’re particularly fond of a glass batter bowl with a sturdy handle, as it makes mixing much easier and keeps the bowl stable on your counter. Look for one with a non-slip base for added security.
Spatula/Kitchen Spoon: Essential for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl and ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. A flexible silicone spatula is ideal for this task.
Parchment Paper: A true game-changer in the kitchen! Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking, promotes even baking, and makes cleanup incredibly easy. It also simplifies transferring warm cookies off the baking sheet.
Baking Sheet with Sides: Investing in baking sheets with raised edges is a small detail that makes a big difference. This simple design prevents cookies from accidentally sliding off the tray, especially when taking them out of the oven. Trust me, I speak from experience – a lesson learned the hard way that you don’t want to repeat!
Electric Mixer (Handheld or Stand Mixer) with Paddle Attachment: While you can mix this dough by hand, an electric mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar much easier and more efficient, ensuring a light and airy base for your cookies. The paddle attachment is ideal for cookie dough as it mixes without over-aerating.
Having these tools ready before you start will streamline your baking process, allowing you to focus on the joy of creating these wonderful cookies rather than wrestling with equipment.
How to Master the Art of Making Snowball Cookies
Creating these delightful Snowball Cookies is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all experience levels. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly tender and wonderfully coated. Full, printable instructions are also provided in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
- Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your cookies are ready to bake, promoting even cooking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In your large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial for incorporating air and creating a tender cookie.
- Incorporate Vanilla and Flour: Add the vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until just combined. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Add the Nuts: Fold in the finely chopped almonds (or your nut of choice) until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough should be soft and pliable, but not sticky.
- Form the Cookies: Roll the dough into uniform 1-inch balls. Consistency in size helps ensure even baking. Place the balls about 1-2 inches apart on your parchment-lined cookie sheets.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the bottoms just begin to brown. The cookies should still appear pale on top.
- Cool and Coat: Remove the cookie sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While still warm (but cool enough to handle), roll each cookie generously in powdered sugar. This initial coating will melt slightly, creating a delicious base. Once completely cool, roll them a second time in powdered sugar for that iconic “snowball” finish and extra sweetness.
- Storage: Once completely cool, store your finished Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and delicate texture.
Following these steps will result in a batch of beautifully textured, perfectly sweet, and utterly irresistible Snowball Cookies that will surely become a favorite in your household.
Preparation and Storage Tips for Snowball Cookies
Planning ahead and proper storage are key to enjoying your Snowball Cookies to their fullest, whether you’re baking for a big event or just a sweet treat throughout the week.
Make Ahead: Like many fantastic cookie recipes, Snowball Cookies are incredibly convenient for make-ahead preparation. You can easily prepare the cookie dough a day or even two in advance. Simply mix the dough as instructed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Chilling the dough also makes it firmer and easier to roll into perfect balls, and some bakers find it enhances the flavor development. Remember to let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling if it’s too firm straight from the fridge.
Storage of Baked Cookies: Once baked and thoroughly coated in powdered sugar, leftover Snowball Cookies should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. This will keep them fresh, tender, and prevent them from drying out for approximately one week. For best results, place a piece of parchment paper between layers of cookies if stacking to prevent the powdered sugar from clumping or sticking.
Freezing Baked Cookies: For longer storage, baked Snowball Cookies freeze beautifully. After the final powdered sugar coating, arrange the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They will maintain their quality for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature. You might want to give them an additional light dusting of powdered sugar after thawing for a fresh look.
Freezing Dough: If you want to bake fresh cookies on demand, freezing the raw cookie dough is an excellent option. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, just as you would for baking. Place these dough balls on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Once frozen, transfer the solid dough balls to an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag. This method helps prevent freezer burn, keeping the dough fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, you can often bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time, or let them thaw to room temperature first. Always coat them in powdered sugar after they have completely cooled from baking.
Creative Recipe Variations and Dietary Options
While the classic Snowball Cookie is undeniably perfect, its simple base makes it an excellent canvas for creative variations. Feel free to experiment and tailor these cookies to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Substitutions: Our recipe typically calls for salted butter, which adds a subtle depth of flavor. However, if you only have unsalted butter on hand, simply use that and add a small pinch (about ¼ teaspoon) of fine salt to the dry ingredients. A touch of salt is essential to the taste and texture of your cookies, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile. Additionally, if almonds aren’t your preference, these cookies are incredibly versatile with other nuts. Try finely chopped pecans, walnuts, pistachios, or cashews for different flavor nuances and textures. Lightly toasting your chosen nuts before adding them to the dough can significantly amplify their flavor.
Flavor Enhancements: For a festive twist, consider adding mini chocolate chips to the dough for epic Christmas treats that appeal to chocolate lovers. You could also infuse the dough with citrus zest, like lemon, orange, or lime, for a brighter flavor. A touch of almond extract can boost the nutty aroma, or a hint of peppermint extract can make them wonderfully seasonal. Experiment with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of allspice for a warming touch, particularly around the holidays.
Vegetarian Option: This cookie recipe is inherently vegetarian-friendly, making it a great choice for those following a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet.
Vegan Option: To make these delectable cookies suitable for a vegan diet, simply replace the dairy butter with your preferred plant-based alternative for baking. Ensure your chosen vegan butter has a similar fat content and behaves similarly to dairy butter when creamed and baked.
Gluten-Free: Adapting this recipe for a gluten-free diet is straightforward. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. The remaining ingredients are typically gluten-free, but for those with high sensitivities, always double-check the labels on each package to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Alcohol-Free Option and Boozy Twists: Our base recipe is alcohol-free, making it perfect for all ages. However, for an adult twist, we’ve seen delightful versions that incorporate a tablespoon or two of rum, Kahlúa, or Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur) into the dough for added layers of sophisticated, boozy flavor.
Adjusting Serving Size: The provided recipe yields approximately 24 servings. It’s incredibly easy to scale this recipe up or down based on your desired yield. Just remember that if you’re significantly increasing the batch size, you may need additional cookie sheets to accommodate all the dough.
Make it Spicy: For a truly unique flavor experience, venture into the realm of spicy Snowball Cookies! We’ve encountered intriguing variations that incorporate warming spices such as sweet paprika, aromatic cinnamon, or a cozy pumpkin spice blend. These spices add an unexpected yet delightful kick, perfectly complementing the cookie’s inherent sweetness.
Sugar-Free: For those managing sugar intake, this recipe can be adapted to be sugar-free. The base recipe contains about 7 grams of sugar per serving. To make it sugar-free, simply substitute both the granulated white sugar and the powdered sugar with your preferred sugar-free baking alternatives (e.g., erythritol or xylitol-based sweeteners). Be sure to use powdered sugar substitutes for the coating to achieve the classic look and texture.
Top Tips for Baking the Best Snowball Cookies
Achieving perfectly tender, melt-in-your-mouth Snowball Cookies is easier than you think with a few expert tips:
- Nomenclature Nuances: Did you know that Snowball Cookies go by many names across different cultures? You might also recognize them as Russian Tea Cakes, Pecan Sandies, or Swedish Tea Cakes. Each name hints at a slightly different regional variation, but the core concept of a buttery, nutty, powdered-sugar-dusted cookie remains universally loved.
- Room Temperature Butter is Key: Ensure your butter is properly softened to room temperature. This is crucial for creaming it with sugar effectively, creating a light, airy base for your cookies. Cold butter won’t cream properly, and melted butter will result in a greasy dough.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the flour, mix until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough, chewy cookies instead of the desired tender, crumbly texture.
- The Double Roll Technique: For that iconic “snowball” look and extra sweetness, roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice. The first roll happens while the cookies are still warm (but cool enough to handle). This initial dusting melts slightly and adheres to the warm cookie, creating a base. The second roll occurs once the cookies have completely cooled, giving them a pristine, thick white coating that truly resembles snow.
- Quality Nuts Make a Difference: Use fresh, high-quality nuts. For an even more profound flavor, lightly toast your chopped nuts in a dry pan or a preheated oven for a few minutes before adding them to the dough. This simple step brings out their natural oils and intensifies their nutty aroma.
- Accurate Flour Measurement: For precise baking, always measure your flour using the spoon-and-level method. Spoon flour into your measuring cup until it’s overflowing, then use a straight edge (like the back of a knife) to level off the excess. This prevents compacting the flour and ensures you’re not adding too much, which can make cookies dry.
- Cooling Rack Importance: After the first roll in powdered sugar, transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Air circulation around all sides prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy and helps set the powdered sugar coating.
- Recipe Card for Details: Remember, detailed, printable recipe card instructions are provided at the bottom of this post for your convenience.
- Nutrition Information: The nutrition information, including calories, protein, calcium, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamin C, potassium, cholesterol, sodium, trans fat, monounsaturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, and more, will naturally vary depending on the specific brands and products you use. Always refer to your ingredient labels for the most accurate dietary details.
What to Serve with Your Elegant Snowball Cookies
These elegant, melt-in-your-mouth Snowball Cookies are a gorgeous and versatile addition to any dessert spread, especially during the holidays. Their delicate sweetness and rich, buttery flavor make them a perfect complement to a wide array of festive dishes and beverages. Here are some menu pairing suggestions to help you craft a truly memorable feast for sharing with friends and family:
Appetizers & Sides:
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies (savory and sweet contrast),
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls (classic crowd-pleaser),
Cheesy Green Beans (comforting vegetable side),
Homemade Cranberry Sauce (tart and refreshing),
Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams (rich and sweet side dish),
Creamed Corn Casserole (creamy and indulgent),
Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole (timeless holiday favorite),
CrockPot Scalloped Potatoes & Ham (hearty and convenient meal).
Main Dishes:
Eggnog French Toast (for a festive brunch),
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole (hearty morning meal),
Ham & Cheese Crescent Roll Casserole (easy and delicious),
CrockPot Turkey (stress-free holiday main),
CrockPot Ham (tender and flavorful),
CrockPot Cranberry Barbecue Meatballs (sweet and savory appetizer or light main),
Bourbon Baked Ham (elegant and flavorful),
CrockPot Orange Glazed Ham (bright and citrusy),
CrockPot Coke Glazed Ham (a unique, sweet glaze).
Complementary Desserts:
Eggnog Cookies (more holiday cheer),
Sugared Cranberries (beautiful garnish and sweet-tart bite),
4 Ingredient Christmas Crack (addictive toffee treat),
Reindeer Chow (fun, festive snack mix),
Grinch Bark (colorful and whimsical),
No Bake Church Window Cookies (another easy, festive cookie),
Eggnog Cake with Eggnog Glaze (rich and moist cake),
No Bake Eggnog Pie (creamy and light),
Cranberry Fluff Salad (sweet and airy),
Snow Ice Cream (a whimsical, seasonal treat),
Black Forest Cupcakes (rich chocolate and cherry). Snowball cookies offer a lighter, nuttier contrast to these richer desserts.
Festive Drinks:
Broken Down Golf Cart Shot,
Baileys Hot Chocolate (creamy and warm),
Grinch Jello Shots (playful holiday fun),
Fireball Jello Shots (for a spicy kick),
Cherry Bomb Shot,
Cranberry Mimosa (bubbly and refreshing),
Eggnog Coffee (comforting holiday beverage),
Peppermint Patty Shot (cool minty indulgence),
Polar Bear Shot (creamy and sweet),
Boozy Grinch Drink (vibrant green cocktail),
Three Wise Men Shot,
Maple Old Fashioned Cocktail (sophisticated and warming). These drinks offer a perfect complement, whether you prefer something warm, spirited, or refreshing alongside your cookies.
When to Indulge in Snowball Cookies
While often associated with festive occasions, Snowball Cookies are truly versatile and can be enjoyed throughout the year. Their classic charm makes them suitable for a multitude of gatherings and simple everyday pleasures:
- Thanksgiving: A wonderful addition to the dessert table, offering a lighter, nuttier option amidst pies and heavier sweets.
- Holiday Cocktail Parties: Perfect as a sophisticated finger food, easy for guests to enjoy while mingling.
- Christmas: The quintessential holiday cookie, evoking winter wonderlands with its snowy appearance.
- New Year’s Day Party: A delightful treat to welcome in the new year with friends and family.
- Cookie Exchanges: Always a popular choice to share and swap with fellow bakers.
- Afternoon Tea: Their delicate size and flavor make them an ideal companion to a warm cup of tea or coffee.
- Potlucks: Easy to transport and universally loved, they’re a great contribution to any gathering.
- Everyday Treat: Don’t wait for a special occasion! These cookies are simple enough to whip up for a delightful snack any day of the week.
More Great Holiday Recipes to Explore
We absolutely adore classic Christmas cookie recipes and enjoy experimenting with fun new twists each year. If you’re looking to expand your holiday baking repertoire, here are some other fantastic recipes that are sure to impress:
Krumkake (a traditional Norwegian rolled waffle cookie)
Sugar and Spice Almonds (a wonderfully addictive snack or gift)
Apricot Coconut Cookies (a chewy, fruity delight)
Molasses Cookies (soft, chewy, and full of warm spice)
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels (a simple, sweet, and crunchy treat)
Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to check out our extensive collection of copycat recipes, a wide variety of dessert recipes, and our incredibly convenient CrockPot Recipes for easy meals.
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Snowball Cookies
Print
Rate
15 minutes
14 minutes
29 minutes
24
167
kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Butter Softened
- ½ Cup White Sugar
- 2 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 Cups All Purpose Flour
- 1 Cup Almonds finely chopped
- ½ Cup Confectioners Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350˚F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the vanilla extract, then slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined.
- Add the finely chopped almonds and mix to ensure they are evenly distributed. The mixture should form a soft dough.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350˚F (175°C) until the bottoms just start to turn golden brown, approximately 12-14 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes until warm enough to handle. Roll the warm cookies generously in powdered sugar and then place on a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar a second time for a beautiful finish.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Kitchen Tools
- Cookie Sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Electric Mixer (optional, but recommended)
- Wire Cooling Rack
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 99
Recipe originally shared on November 28, 2014. Updated September 2020.