Snowballs - Christmas Cookies
Delightful snowball cookies with a tender nutty flavor, coated in powdered sugar, perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges, appealing to those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the shortening, salt, vanilla, powdered sugar, water, flour, and ground nuts until well combined, then chill the mixture.
- Form the chilled dough into approximately 1-inch diameter balls and place them close together on a cookie sheet, as they will not spread during baking.
- Bake the cookies at 250°F (120°C) for about 45 minutes.
- While the cookies are warm, roll them in powdered sugar to coat generously.
- Allow the cookies to cool before serving or storing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening, though this will alter the texture slightly. If you're looking for a nut-free version, replace the finely ground nuts with an equal amount of more flour. Chill the dough for at least an hour to ensure that the balls hold their shape during baking. Remember to roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar for a delightful finish.
Serving Suggestions
These Snowballs make a festive addition to any holiday cookie platter, especially alongside other favorites like Peach Skillet Upside-Down Cake or Boiling Water Pastry. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, enhancing their sweet and nutty flavors. Serve them as a delightful treat at gatherings or as gifts in decorative tins.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a sealed bag for up to three months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature. Re-roll in powdered sugar if desired for a fresh look before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snowballs - Christmas Cookies contains roughly 67 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 3g 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! Feel free to use any finely ground nuts you prefer, such as walnuts or almonds. Each type will bring its unique flavor and texture to the cookies. Just ensure they are finely ground for even distribution in the dough.
What if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly and difficult to form into balls, try adding a teaspoon of water gradually until the mixture holds together better. Be cautious not to add too much, as it could affect the final texture of the cookies.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Alternatively, bake the cookies in advance and store them, then roll in powdered sugar just before serving for that fresh touch.
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).