Snowball cookies, with their buttery texture and sweet, nutty flavor, have become a beloved staple in many households, especially during the holiday season. These delightful treats are not only a visual feast but also a sensory delight, as they melt in your mouth with every bite. With their signature coating of powdered sugar, they resemble snowballs, making them a perfect choice for festive occasions. In this guide, we’ll delve into how to make these cookies, ensuring they turn out perfectly every time.
Course: Cookies
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 11 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Servings: 30-36 cookies
Ingredients :
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup pecans or walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions :
- Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and reach the perfect level of crispness. - Prepare the Dough
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the dough, which contributes to the cookies’ tender texture. - Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Once the butter and sugar are well combined, lower the mixer speed and gradually add the salt, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cookie. - Form the Cookies
Using a 1-tablespoon scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Arrange the dough balls on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them a few inches apart to allow for even baking. - Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are very lightly browned. The centers should remain pale. It’s important not to over-bake these cookies; they should be soft and delicate. - Dust with Powdered Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets just long enough to handle them, then transfer them to a medium bowl containing 1 cup of powdered sugar. Gently roll each cookie in the powdered sugar to coat. Use a fork to carefully lift each cookie and gently shake off any excess sugar. - Cool and Re-Dust
Place the cookies on cooling racks to cool completely. Once cooled, roll them in powdered sugar once more for an extra layer of sweetness and that signature snowy appearance.
Conclusion :
Snowball cookies are more than just a festive treat; they embody the spirit of the holidays with their rich, buttery flavor and snowy sweetness. Perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any occasion. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the delicate crunch of the nuts make each bite a delightful experience.
By following these steps, you can create these iconic cookies that will surely become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Enjoy the process of baking, and savor the joy these cookies bring to your table!
Source of the picture : smalltownwoman
