Swedish Butter Balls
Delightful Swedish Butter Balls are buttery, nutty cookies coated in powdered sugar, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter, sugar, and vanilla thoroughly.
- Add salt to flour.
- Gradually stir in the flour mixture and chopped pecans until well blended.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and flatten slightly with a fork.
- Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of these Swedish Butter Balls, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be a great substitute. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, and don't skip the step of rolling them in powdered sugar while they are still warm for better adherence.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also make a lovely addition to holiday cookie platters or dessert tables alongside other sweets like Cocoa Clouds or Portuguese Biscuits. For a unique twist, serve them with a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Swedish Butter Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag. To enjoy them again, thaw at room temperature and roll in fresh powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Butter Balls contains roughly 738 calories, with 13g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1753mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
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 butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture might differ slightly. Margarine tends to have more water content, which could affect the cookie's final texture. Look for a stick margarine for best results.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make Swedish Butter Balls gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help replicate the texture of traditional flour. Always check the labels to ensure that all ingredients are gluten-free.
What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly and won't hold together, try adding a teaspoon of milk or water gradually until the mixture binds. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as this can alter the cookie's texture. Ensure your butter is soft enough for easy mixing.
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).