Snowballs
Snowballs are tender, nutty cookies coated in powdered sugar, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich pecan flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat, they appeal to those who enjoy buttery, nut-filled confections with a snowy finish. Easy to make and delightfully festive.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except confectioners sugar.
- Mix with hands until thoroughly blended.
- Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Form the chilled dough into 1 1/4-inch balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet, 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until set but not brown.
- Let the cookies stand for 1 minute after baking.
- Remove from the sheet and cool partially on wire racks.
- While still warm, roll the cookies in confectioners sugar, then roll again for a snowy coating.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the butter is softened but not melted. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes. To add a hint of flavor, consider incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough. Make sure to sift the flour for even mixing. If the dough feels too sticky, chill it a bit longer before forming the balls.
Serving Suggestions
Snowballs are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them at holiday gatherings or alongside a slice of Ann Mcgill Erck'S Sour Cream Coffee Cake for a sweet spread. For a festive touch, arrange them on a decorative platter dusted with extra confectioners' sugar.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving or reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snowballs contains roughly 119 calories, with 2g protein, 6g 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 use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or even almonds if you prefer. Just ensure they are finely chopped to maintain the texture of the cookies. Each nut variety will bring its own unique flavor, making the snowballs versatile.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, it may need a touch more butter or even a teaspoon of water to help it bind. Mix in small amounts until you achieve the right consistency. Chilling the dough longer can also help with shaping the balls more easily.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free snowballs, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, to mimic the texture of regular flour. This will allow you to enjoy these treats without gluten.
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).