Classic Snowball Cookies (a.k.a. Pecan Butterballs)
These tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are the perfect mix of buttery richness and nutty crunch, all wrapped in a soft, snowy coating of powdered sugar. Ideal for holidays, tea parties, or whenever you want to feel like you’re in a warm kitchen on a snowy afternoon.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds all work great)
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or leave it ungreased if you’re sticking to tradition. - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. - Add Vanilla
Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined. - Mix Dry Ingredients
Add the salt and flour gradually to the butter mixture, mixing just until a dough forms. It will be thick and slightly crumbly—don’t overmix. - Stir in the Nuts
Fold in the finely chopped nuts using a wooden spoon or spatula. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. - Shape the Cookies
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form 1-inch balls. You can also gently flatten them if you prefer a flatter cookie. - Bake to Perfection
Place the dough balls about 1 inch apart on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops will remain pale. - First Sugar Dusting (While Warm!)
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for just 2–3 minutes, then carefully roll them in confectioners’ sugar while still warm. Be gentle—they’re delicate! - Cool & Second Sugar Dusting
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. Once cool, give them a second roll in powdered sugar for that perfect snowy finish. - Serve or Store
Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully!
🍪 Tips & Tricks:
- For extra flavor, toast your nuts before chopping.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday twist.
- Want them extra snowy? Sift your powdered sugar before rolling.