Indulge in the sweet, buttery goodness of snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a sweet snack. Their tender texture and rich flavor, complemented by a dusting of powdered sugar, make them irresistible. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, snowball cookies are a must-try for every cookie lover!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans are best)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for baking.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
This nutritional information is based on a single cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Using your hands, shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
- While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat them well.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the butter with margarine or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version. Additionally, use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Chopped dried fruits can replace nuts if desired.
Serving and Pairings
Snowball cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. They can also be served alongside other holiday cookies for a festive platter or enjoyed as a light dessert after dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Store snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To refresh, let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not chilling the dough can lead to flat cookies.
- Overbaking will dry them out; watch them closely.
- Using too much flour can make cookies tough.
- Not rolling in powdered sugar while warm will prevent even coating.
- Skipping the nuts can alter the texture significantly.
Helpful Tips
- Use finely chopped nuts for a better texture.
- Ensure butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Try different flavored extracts for variety.
- Experiment with different types of nuts for unique flavors.
FAQs
Can I make snowball cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Just roll the cookies in powdered sugar after baking.
What types of nuts work best in snowball cookies?
Walnuts and pecans are the most common choices, but almonds or hazelnuts can also be delicious alternatives.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1.
Why are my cookies flat?
Cookies can flatten if the dough is too warm or if there’s not enough flour. Ensure proper measurements and chill the dough if necessary.
How long do snowball cookies last?
Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.
Conclusion
Snowball cookies are a delightful treat that brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and buttery flavor, combined with the festive powdered sugar coating, make them a favorite among cookie lovers. Whether enjoyed with a warm beverage or shared during the holidays, these cookies are sure to create joyful moments.
Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Using your hands, shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
- While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat them well.
