Mom'S Pecan Snowballs
Delightful melt-in-your-mouth pecan snowballs coated in sweet confectioners sugar, perfect for holiday treats or special occasions, appealing to nut lovers and those who enjoy buttery cookies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except confectioners sugar.
- Mix with hands until thoroughly blended. Refrigerate dough for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Form dough into 1/4-inch balls.
- Place 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until set but not brown.
- Let stand for 1 minute, then remove to wire rack to cool partially.
- While still warm, roll in confectioners sugar.
- Cool completely, then re-roll in confectioners sugar just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can toast the pecans before chopping them. If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To enhance the sweetness, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough. Ensure the butter is soft but not melted to achieve the best texture. These snowballs are perfect for holiday gatherings, just like the Holiday Nut Bread.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful snowballs are perfect as a holiday treat or with afternoon tea. They pair beautifully with an Ice Mocha for a comforting afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve them alongside other holiday cookies or a slice of Peanut Crumb Coffee Cake. A dusting of extra confectioners' sugar just before serving enhances their visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pecan snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To refresh them, simply let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just roll in confectioners' sugar before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Pecan Snowballs contains roughly 106 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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 instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure they are finely chopped to maintain the snowball texture. Keep in mind that different nuts will slightly change the flavor profile, but they will still be delicious.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be set but not browned. They will remain pale, so look for a firm texture when lightly touched. If you notice they start to brown, remove them from the oven immediately to prevent overbaking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When ready to bake, simply take it out, form the balls, and bake as directed.
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).