Snowball Cookies(Pecan Balls)
Pecan snowball cookies are buttery, nutty treats coated in powdered sugar, perfect for festive occasions or as sweet gifts, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture with crunchy pecans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except confectioners sugar.
- Mix by hand until well blended.
- Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Form the chilled mixture into 1 1/4-inch balls.
- Place the balls 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until set but not browned.
- Let the cookies stand for 1 minute after baking.
- Remove the cookies to a wire rack to cool slightly.
- While warm, roll the cookies in confectioners sugar.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Before serving, re-roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans before chopping them. If you want to reduce the butter, you can substitute half with applesauce for a healthier option. Ensure the dough is well-chilled before forming the balls to prevent them from spreading during baking. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans.
Serving Suggestions
These delicate cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as an afternoon treat with tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with a rich chocolate dessert, such as Butterfinger Fudge, or can be served alongside a fruit-based dessert like Merican Fruit Cake. Dust with additional confectioners sugar right before serving for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their powdered sugar coating, separate layers of cookies with parchment paper. These cookies can also be frozen; just make sure to roll them in powdered sugar after thawing for the best texture and presentation.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snowball Cookies(Pecan Balls) contains roughly 118 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 9g 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 make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, snowball cookies can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the dough, shape it into balls, and freeze them. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies whenever you need them.
What can I use instead of butter in this recipe?
You can substitute butter with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. If you want a lighter alternative, consider using unsweetened applesauce or a vegan butter substitute. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so choose one that suits your taste.
How do I get my cookies to stay round?
To help the cookies maintain their round shape, ensure the dough is thoroughly chilled before baking. Additionally, avoid overmixing the dough when combining ingredients. If you notice the cookies spreading too much, consider adding a bit more flour to the dough until you achieve the desired consistency.
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).