These Snowball Cookies are an absolute must-have during the holiday season, bringing back warm memories of cozy kitchens and festive cheer. Soft, buttery, and coated in a heavenly dusting of powdered sugar, these bite-sized delights melt in your mouth with every bite. Whether you call them Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, or simply Snowballs, their irresistible texture and nutty flavor make them a cherished Christmas tradition.
With just a handful of pantry staples, this simple yet elegant recipe will fill your home with the nostalgic aroma of the holidays. Let’s recreate a timeless favorite your family will treasure for years to come!
Ingredients and Their Role
1 cup butter, softened
The foundation of these cookies! Butter gives them their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Softened butter ensures it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.1/2 cup powdered sugar
Powdered sugar in the dough creates a smooth, tender crumb. Unlike granulated sugar, it dissolves effortlessly for that classic buttery finish.1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A hint of vanilla adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile. Always use pure vanilla extract for the best results.2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Flour provides structure to these cookies while keeping them light and delicate.1/4 teaspoon salt
Salt balances the sweetness and intensifies the buttery, nutty flavors.1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work best)
Nuts give the cookies a delightful crunch and a rich, earthy flavor. Pecans and walnuts are traditional choices, but feel free to experiment!1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
The final touch! Rolling the warm cookies in powdered sugar creates their signature snowy, festive appearance.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Proper oven temperature ensures the cookies bake evenly without browning too much.
2. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until well combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts. The dough should be firm but pliable—perfect for rolling.
3. Shape the Cookies
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands. Try to keep the sizes consistent for even baking.
- Place the balls on an ungreased baking sheet or one lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
4. Bake
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the cookies are set but not browned. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to stay pale and tender.
5. Roll in Powdered Sugar
- While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in a bowl of powdered sugar. This first coating allows the sugar to stick beautifully.
- Let the cookies cool completely, then roll them again for that classic snowy, sweet finish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
Soften the Butter Properly:
Ensure your butter is soft to the touch but not melted. This helps create the perfect dough texture.Don’t Overbake:
These cookies should remain pale and not turn golden. Bake just until the edges feel set.Double Sugar Coating:
Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while warm and again once cooled gives them that dreamy, snow-covered appearance.Choose Quality Nuts:
Use fresh, finely chopped pecans or walnuts for the best flavor. Toasting the nuts lightly beforehand can add an extra layer of richness.Storage:
Store these cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. They also freeze beautifully—perfect for make-ahead holiday baking!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Snowball Cookies with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or a warm spiced tea for the ultimate holiday treat.
- Arrange them on a festive platter alongside other Christmas favorites like gingerbread cookies, sugar cookies, and fudge.
- Add a decorative dusting of powdered sugar just before serving to enhance their wintery, snowy charm.
Why This Recipe is Loved
These Snowball Cookies are a true holiday classic—loved for their simple ingredients, quick preparation, and nostalgic flavor. The melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the crunch of nuts and the sweet powdered sugar coating makes them simply irresistible. They’re perfect for gifting, holiday cookie exchanges, or enjoying by the fire with loved ones.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Snowball Cookies have been passed down through generations. They’re easy to make, beautiful to serve, and bursting with buttery, nutty goodness. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can create a timeless holiday treat that everyone will adore.
Don’t let this recipe get lost—save it, share it, and make it a part of your family’s Christmas traditions. These cookies will remind you of the warmth and love of holidays past, just like they did at Grandma’s house. ❤️