Brazil Nut Snowballs
Brazil Nut Snowballs are sweet, nutty cookies coated in powdered sugar, perfect for festive occasions or as a delicate treat for nut lovers seeking a rich, buttery flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until well blended.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Sift together the flour and salt, then gradually add to the butter mixture.
- Add the ground Brazil nuts and mix thoroughly.
- Shape the dough into 2/3-inch balls and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cookies are done.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly, then roll them in confectioners' sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier blending with sugar. If you don’t have Brazil nuts, walnuts or pecans can be a great substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly. Make sure to sift your flour and salt together to avoid clumps. If the dough is too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes can help with shaping.
Serving Suggestions
These snowballs are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. For a festive touch, serve them alongside the Seven Layer Green Salad for a colorful holiday spread. Dust with extra confectioners' sugar right before serving for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Brazil Nut Snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their texture, avoid refrigerating them. If you want to enjoy them warm, briefly microwave them for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brazil Nut Snowballs contains roughly 1941 calories, with 13g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 159g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 615mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Brazil Nut Snowballs?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with margarine or a plant-based butter alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture might slightly change, so choose a high-quality substitute for the best results.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also incorporate mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture and taste. Experimenting with flavor extracts like almond or hazelnut can also give them a unique twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).