Snowball Surprises
Snowball Surprises are delightful bite-sized cookies that combine the rich flavors of butter and pecans with a hidden chocolate kiss in the center. Each cookie is rolled in powdered sugar for a sweet finish, making them perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy treat at home.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- Add flour and chopped pecans, then blend well.
- Chill the dough.
- Remove foil from chocolate kisses.
- Shape dough around kisses using 1 tablespoon for each.
- Roll to form a ball, covering the kiss completely.
- Place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes until set but not brown.
- While warm, sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Store in a covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute chopped pecans with finely chopped oats or sunflower seeds. Ensure your butter is softened for easier blending, and consider chilling the dough longer if it feels too sticky. To add a twist, you can incorporate a dash of almond extract for extra flavor. Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of Instant Creamy Hot Chocolate for a delightful pairing.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of year. Serve them alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. They pair well with coffee or tea, making them a great addition to afternoon gatherings. Consider browsing more American recipes for additional festive ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Snowball Surprises in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To maintain freshness, you can also refrigerate them, which may enhance the texture. If you prefer warm cookies, briefly reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snowball Surprises contains roughly 191 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 13g 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 for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts based on your preference. Just ensure that whichever nut you choose is finely chopped to maintain the texture of the dough. Alternatively, for a nut-free option, consider using seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky after mixing, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. This will firm it up and make it easier to handle. If the dough remains sticky, you can also lightly dust your hands with flour while shaping the cookies to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, Snowball Surprises freeze well! To freeze, place the shaped but unbaked cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time without thawing.
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).