Pecan Balls - Christmas Cookie(Snowballs)
Sweet, nutty Pecan Balls are melt-in-your-mouth cookies coated in powdered sugar, perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges, appealing to anyone who loves buttery, crunchy treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter until smooth and add the white sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- With floured hands, roll the dough into bite-sized balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the balls on a greased or sprayed cookie sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before rolling in powdered sugar if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, toast the chopped pecans lightly before mixing them into the dough. If you're out of butter, you can substitute with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option. If you don't have vanilla, almond extract can be used for a different but complementary flavor. Ensure your dough is chilled slightly before rolling to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan balls are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee during the holidays. For a festive touch, serve them alongside other holiday cookies, like gingerbread or peppermint bark. They make a delightful addition to any dessert platter or cookie exchange.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes; this will also help restore their delightful texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Balls - Christmas Cookie(Snowballs) contains roughly 686 calories, with 7g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% 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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to chop them finely to maintain the texture of the cookies. Each type of nut will bring its own unique flavor to the recipe, so feel free to experiment!
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
If you want to ensure a perfect outcome, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
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).