Nut Butter Ball
Nut Butter Balls are delightful, no-bake treats with a rich nutty flavor, coated in powdered sugar, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter until soft and smooth, then blend in vanilla extract.
- Mix in sifted flour, salt, and chopped or ground nuts until well combined.
- Knead the mixture with your hands if necessary to incorporate all ingredients.
- Refrigerate the dough for 1 hour or until easy to handle.
- Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls, tiny fingers, or crescents and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until light brown.
- While cookies are still warm, coat them with powdered sugar.
- Re-roll the cookies with powdered sugar once they are cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can substitute a portion of the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free version. If the dough is too crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk to help bind it. Ensure you sift the flour to avoid lumps, as a smooth texture is key to these Nut Butter Balls.
Serving Suggestions
These Nut Butter Balls are delightful on their own but can be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters alongside other favorites like Grandma's Sugar Cookies (1920). Dust with additional powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Nut Butter Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nut Butter Ball contains roughly 133 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 6g 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any finely chopped or ground nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Each will impart its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your preference or what you have on hand.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough feels too sticky to handle, you can refrigerate it for a bit longer until it firms up. Alternatively, lightly flour your hands and work surface when shaping the balls to make the process easier.
How can I make these Nut Butter Balls more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled Nut Butter Balls or rolling them in colored sugar instead of powdered sugar. These variations can make them a standout treat for holiday gatherings.
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).