Greek Cookie Balls
Delightful Greek cookie balls with a tender, nutty flavor and a sweet powdered sugar coating. Perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter, sugar, and vanilla together.
- Gradually stir in flour and finely chopped walnuts.
- Chill the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Shape into marble-sized balls.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 17 minutes until firm but not brown.
- While hot, roll the cookies in confectioners sugar.
- Allow to cool.
- Roll again in confectioners sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. Chilling the dough helps maintain the shape while baking, so don't skip that step. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as an afternoon treat with coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Ellen's Fruit Cake for a festive dessert platter. Consider serving alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced snack. They also make an excellent gift when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Greek cookie balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To enjoy later, allow them to thaw at room temperature and roll them again in confectioners' sugar before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Cookie Balls contains roughly 299 calories, with 1g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure they are finely chopped to maintain the right texture in the cookies. Each nut brings its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment with your favorite options.
What if I don't have confectioners' sugar?
If you don't have confectioners' sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender until fine and powdery. Alternatively, you can roll the cookies in granulated sugar, though the texture and sweetness will be slightly different.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Greek cookie balls, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture. This will ensure the cookies hold their shape while still delivering a delicious taste.
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).