Snowball Cookies Recipe

ByEmma

Snowball cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a delightful treat that’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you crave a sweet, nutty cookie that melts in your mouth. Their snowy appearance makes them a festive favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need to make these irresistible cookies:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds work best)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Pro Tip: Toast the nuts for a few minutes before chopping. This enhances their flavor and adds depth to your cookies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

## Step 1: Preheat and Prep

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

## Step 2: Mix the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
  3. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
  4. Stir in the chopped nuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

Pro Tip: Don’t overmix the dough; this ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

## Step 3: Shape the Cookies

  1. Scoop out 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball.
  2. Place the balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.

## Step 4: Bake the Cookies

  1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
  2. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet.

Pro Tip: Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar. They’ll hold their shape better while still warm enough for the sugar to stick.

## Step 5: Roll in Powdered Sugar

  1. Roll each warm cookie in a generous layer of powdered sugar.
  2. Once fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for that signature snowy look.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar if needed.

Variations to Try

  • Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise.
  • Citrus Zest: Mix in a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a fresh, zesty flavor.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced cookie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: No complicated techniques—perfect for beginners!
  • Customizable: Switch up the nuts or flavorings to make it your own.
  • Irresistible Texture: Buttery, crumbly, and coated in sweet powdered sugar, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser.

Final Thoughts

Snowball cookies are a classic recipe that’s stood the test of time for good reason. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering or as a simple treat, their light, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture are sure to impress.

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