Snowball Cookies

Snowball Cookies! Just hearing the name makes you think of winter wonderlands and holiday cheer. These little cookies, also called Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are famous for their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and their generous coating of powdered sugar. It’s like biting into a cloud!

Their history is a bit of a sweet mystery, with different cultures claiming their own version. But one thing’s for sure: Snowball Cookies are a classic treat that brings joy to any occasion. They are especially popular during the holidays. They’re the perfect addition to your cookie platter or a sweet gift for friends and family. So get ready to bake up some magic with these delightful Snowball Cookies!

Why this Snowball Cookie Recipe is Special

This recipe is special because it’s so simple and foolproof! We use melted butter instead of softened butter. This makes the dough super easy to work with and gives the cookies an extra tender crumb. Plus, we’ll share a little trick to get that perfect powdered sugar coating that stays put.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing Snowball Cookies:

• Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled. Melted butter creates a tender, almost shortbread-like texture.
• Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup, plus more for coating. Powdered sugar is essential for the signature sweetness and coating.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Pure vanilla extract adds a lovely warmth to the flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups. Provides the structure for the cookies.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• Nuts: 1 cup of finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds. The nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight: Nuts

I usually go for pecans in my Snowball Cookies. Their rich, buttery flavor complements the sweetness perfectly. Walnuts offer a more robust flavor, while almonds bring a delicate touch. If you have a nut allergy, you can simply omit them or try substituting with toasted shredded coconut for a similar texture. Looking for other ways to use nuts? Check out these delicious cereal bars!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bake some Snowball Cookies? Here’s how!

Making the Dough

1. Combine Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, pour in the melted and slightly cooled butter. Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract. It’ll make your cookies smell amazing!
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed (or by hand) until just combined. Don’t overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
5. Add Nuts: Stir in the chopped nuts until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. You can chill it for up to 2 hours!

Shaping and Baking

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Shape the Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.
3. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should be set but not browned.
4. Cool Slightly: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Cooling and Coating

1. First Coating: While the cookies are still warm (but not too hot to handle), gently roll them in powdered sugar. The warmth helps the sugar stick.
2. Cool Completely: Place the coated cookies on a wire rack and let them cool completely.
3. Second Coating: Once the cookies are completely cool, roll them in powdered sugar again. This second coating is what gives Snowball Cookies their signature snowy appearance. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Want to make your Snowball Cookies even more amazing? Here are some helpful tips and fun variations!

• Chill Time is Key: Don’t skip the chilling time! It’s essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too thin while baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaked Snowball Cookies will be dry and crumbly. Bake them until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
• Powdered Sugar Trick: For a thicker, more even coating, try sifting the powdered sugar before rolling the cookies.

Different Coating Options

• Sprinkles: Add a festive touch by mixing colorful sprinkles into the powdered sugar.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled, coated cookies for a decadent treat.
• Colored Sugar: Use colored sanding sugar instead of powdered sugar for a vibrant look.

Flavor Tweaks

• Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like almond extract (a little goes a long way!) or lemon extract for a burst of flavor.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Grated lemon or orange zest can brighten up the cookies and add a refreshing twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Cookies Spreading Too Much: Make sure your butter isn’t too warm. Try chilling the dough for a longer period.
• Cookies Too Dry: Don’t overbake them! And make sure you’re using the correct amount of butter and flour.
• Powdered Sugar Not Sticking: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still slightly warm. If they’re too cool, the sugar won’t adhere properly. You can also lightly brush the cookies with melted butter before the first coating.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one Snowball Cookie (based on a recipe using pecans):

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 120-150
• Fat: 8-10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
• Cholesterol: 20-30 mg
• Sodium: 20-30 mg
• Carbohydrates: 12-15 grams
• Sugar: 6-8 grams
• Protein: 1-2 grams

Please note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the size of the cookies.

Understanding the nutritional content is helpful. For a deeper dive into the relationship between sugar and overall health, check out this helpful nutrition guide.

Addressing Dietary Restrictions

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately for better binding.
• Vegan: Replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative. You might need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly.
• Nut-Free: Simply omit the nuts or substitute with toasted shredded coconut or sunflower seeds. Always check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are processed in a nut-free facility if you have severe allergies.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Snowball Cookies:

How to make Snowball Cookies?

Making Snowball Cookies involves creaming melted butter with powdered sugar, adding vanilla, then mixing in flour, salt, and nuts. The dough is chilled, rolled into balls, baked, and then generously coated in powdered sugar twice for that signature snowy look.

Amount of energy in Snowball Cookies?

One Snowball Cookie contains approximately 120-150 calories. Keep in mind that this is an estimate and can vary depending on the ingredients used and the size of the cookie. They are a treat best enjoyed in moderation!

Are Snowball Cookies Mexican?

Snowball Cookies have different names and variations across different cultures. While similar to Mexican Wedding Cookies (or Polvorones), which are also buttery and coated in powdered sugar, they are enjoyed in many other countries. They are often referred to as Russian Tea Cakes in the United States. So, while they are similar to Mexican Wedding Cookies, they are not exclusively Mexican.

Can you freeze Snowball Cookies?

Yes, you can! You can freeze either the unbaked dough or the baked cookies. To freeze the dough, roll it into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To freeze baked cookies, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw frozen dough in the refrigerator before baking. Thaw baked cookies at room temperature. Consider making a batch of easy pumpkin muffins to freeze alongside!

Maintaining a balanced diet is key to enjoying treats like Snowball Cookies. For expert advice, you might find valuable insights on reputable health sites like Healthline.

Serving and Storage

Snowball Cookies are the perfect addition to any holiday gathering! Serve them alongside a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. They also make a delightful dessert paired with ice cream or whipped cream. You can even crush them and use them as a topping for parfaits or yogurt. These would be great as a dessert after some delicious ground chicken recipes

To keep your Snowball Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can dry them out.

Making Ahead and Gifting

Snowball Cookies are great for making ahead! You can prepare the dough days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For gifting, package the cookies in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon. They’re sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face! If you’re looking for another edible gift idea, consider whipping up a batch of homemade chicken nuggets and freezing them for a busy parent!

For information on maintaining a healthy diet during the holidays, exploring resources like Healthline can provide valuable guidance.

Conclusion

There you have it – a simple and delicious recipe for classic Snowball Cookies! These little balls of buttery goodness are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special event, or just because, I hope you enjoy making and sharing them with your loved ones.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and coatings to create your own unique twist. Now it’s your turn to get baking! Try this recipe and let me know how your Snowball Cookies turn out. Happy baking!

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