If you’re searching for a truly delightful treat that captures the essence of cozy winter days, look no further than this Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies Recipe. These buttery, nutty little gems are dusted generously with powdered sugar, creating a snowy appearance that’s as charming as the taste is addictive. Each cookie melts in your mouth, offering a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness, making them an ideal companion for a cup of tea or a festive gathering. I’m thrilled to share this classic recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this timeless cookie lies in its simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role— from the rich, softened butter that ensures melt-in-your-mouth texture, to the finely chopped pecans that provide a pleasant crunch and nutty aroma. Even the vanilla and sugar blend perfectly to create a sweet, fragrant base, while the flour binds everything without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides rich creaminess and the essential fat for tender cookies.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Adds sweetness and helps create a light, fluffy dough.
- Water (2 teaspoons): Helps bind together ingredients and adds moisture.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The primary structure builder that keeps your cookies tender yet firm enough to hold shape.
- Finely chopped pecans (1 cup): Brings delightful texture and a nutty undertone that balances sweetness.
- Confectioners’ sugar (½ cup, for coating): Creates the classic snowy finish, adding a gentle sweetness and gorgeous look.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking environment
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C), ensuring it reaches the perfect temperature for even baking. This step sets the stage for cookies that bake through gently without browning too quickly, preserving their tender texture.
Step 2: Cream the butter and sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration is key to achieving a delicate crumb that practically melts in your mouth. Take your time here—it’s worth the effort.
Step 3: Incorporate water and vanilla
Add the water and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. The vanilla brings a sweet, aromatic depth, while the water helps loosen the mixture slightly, making it easier to blend in the remaining ingredients.
Step 4: Gradually add flour
Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour on low speed to prevent overmixing. Use a spatula to scrape down sides as needed for even distribution. The goal is to combine everything just enough so the dough stays tender without developing too much gluten.
Step 5: Fold in pecans
Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed. These little crunchy surprises provide both texture and that classic nutty flavor that makes this recipe special.
Step 6: Chill the dough
Cover your dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least two hours. This rest time helps the butter firm up, making the dough easier to roll and ensuring the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Step 7: Shape and bake
Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the bottoms turn a delicate golden shade, signaling they are perfectly baked.
Step 8: Coat with confectioners’ sugar
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes, then carefully roll them in confectioners’ sugar while still warm. This initial coating sticks beautifully to the cookies, capturing the snowy look.
Step 9: Final snowy finish
Once the cookies have fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a bold, generous coating. This step completes their signature appearance and adds a final touch of sweetness that keeps you reaching for more.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While the cookies look and taste amazing on their own, you can add a little festive cheer by sprinkling extra powdered sugar just before serving. A dusting of crushed pecans or a few whole pecan halves on the side also adds extra flair and texture contrast.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with warm beverages like spiced chai, hot cocoa, or a robust cup of coffee. For a more indulgent experience, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a bowl of fresh berries to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies Recipe on a tiered dessert tray for a beautiful holiday display. You can also package them in festive tins or clear cellophane bags tied with ribbons—perfect for gifting or bringing along to gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your baked snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The powdered sugar coating stays fresh, and the cookies maintain their tender crunch. Just make sure the container is sealed well to prevent them from absorbing moisture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these charming treats later, freezing is an excellent option. Place the unbaked dough balls on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, you can freeze fully baked, cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to three months.
Reheating
To refresh frozen or stored cookies, gently warm them in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked softness without melting the powdered sugar coating, making each bite feel like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds are fantastic alternatives that complement the buttery dough and powdered sugar nicely. Just finely chop whichever nut you choose for the best texture.
Why do the cookies need to be chilled before baking?
Chilling the dough firms up the butter, making it easier to shape the cookies and helping them maintain their shape while baking. It also enhances the texture, resulting in a more tender bite.
Is it necessary to coat the cookies twice in powdered sugar?
Yes, the first coating while the cookies are warm allows the sugar to stick and melt slightly, creating a base. The second coating after cooling adds that classic snowy look and an extra sweet layer.
How long do Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for about a week. Their texture and flavor remain delightful during this time.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
While this recipe uses all-purpose flour, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for best results.
Final Thoughts
I simply cannot recommend this Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies Recipe enough if you’re looking to bring a little extra joy and warmth to your kitchen. These tender, nutty cookies wrapped in powdered sugar are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of tradition and comfort in every bite. Gather your ingredients, enjoy the process, and share these snowball treasures with loved ones. Happy baking!
Print
Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 48 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies are classic buttery shortbread treats loaded with finely chopped pecans and dusted generously with confectioners’ sugar. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a nostalgic, sweet, nutty delight.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Coating
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to prepare for baking the cookies evenly and gently.
- Cream Butter and Sugar. In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create the tender texture of the cookies.
- Add Liquid Ingredients. Mix in the water and vanilla extract thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly into the dough.
- Incorporate Flour. Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture while mixing at low speed. Be careful to mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies. Scrape down the bowl sides as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Fold in Pecans. Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the dough without overworking it.
- Chill the Dough. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This step firms the dough, making it easier to roll and helping the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Shape Cookies. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden, indicating they are cooked through but still tender.
- Initial Cooling and Sugar Coating. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes after removing them from the oven. While still warm, roll them in confectioners’ sugar to begin the classic snowball appearance.
- Final Sugar Coating. Once the cookies are completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again to provide a generous, snowy coating and enhance their sweet flavor.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential to maintain the cookie shape and ensure a crumbly texture.
- Use finely chopped pecans for even distribution and the best texture.
- Rolling the cookies in confectioners’ sugar twice ensures maximum sweetness and the signature snowy look.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a nut-free option, omit pecans or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
