Powdered Sugar Balls
Powdered Sugar Balls are delightful, bite-sized cookies with a rich nutty flavor and a tender crumb. Coated in powdered sugar while warm, these treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday indulgence, offering a sweet, buttery taste with hints of vanilla and crunch from chopped nuts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Blend together Crisco, vanilla, butter or margarine, salt, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Slowly add sifted flour and chopped nuts to the mixture, blending well after each addition.
- Shape the dough into small 1-inch balls and place on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly browned.
- While hot, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat thoroughly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half Crisco. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the chopped nuts with dried fruit or chocolate chips. Make sure to sift the flour to avoid lumps in the dough. For added flavor, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can be incorporated into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These powdered sugar balls are delightful on their own but can be served with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Lavender Cookies for a sweet dessert platter. Consider dusting them with additional powdered sugar right before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover powdered sugar balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them. To enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Powdered Sugar Balls contains roughly 150 calories, with 1g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 margarine instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for Crisco. However, using all butter or a blend of butter and margarine may yield a richer flavor. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, so adjustments in baking time might be necessary.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these powdered sugar balls gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the other ingredients, such as baking powder and vanilla, are also gluten-free to ensure the entire recipe remains safe.
What kind of nuts work best in this recipe?
You can use a variety of nuts based on your preference; walnuts and pecans are popular choices for their rich flavor. If you want to keep things simple, try using slivered almonds for a subtle crunch. Just make sure they are finely chopped to blend well into the dough.
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).