Snowball Cookies

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Snowball Cookies are a festive favorite that never fail to impress, especially during the holiday season. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture, these little cookies are packed with buttery flavor, a touch of sweetness, and a light dusting of powdered sugar. They’re the perfect treat for any special occasion, or just a sweet snack to enjoy with a cup of tea. I’ve made these cookies for years, and every time I take a bite, I’m reminded of the warm, cozy memories they bring to my kitchen. The combination of simplicity and indulgence makes them irresistible.

What I love most about snowball cookies is their versatility. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just need a delightful treat to share with family and friends, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Plus, they come together quickly and require just a few ingredients. If you’ve never made snowball cookies before, prepare to fall in love with their delicate texture and buttery goodness.

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What Kind of Nuts Should I Use for Snowball Cookies?

When it comes to snowball cookies, the type of nut you use can make a big difference in flavor. Traditionally, pecans are the go-to choice for their slightly sweet and rich taste that complements the buttery dough perfectly. However, if you prefer a different flavor profile, walnuts are another great option. They offer a mild flavor and slightly firmer texture, which still blends beautifully with the dough. Some even choose to use almonds for a more delicate, slightly nutty flavor. The choice of nut really depends on personal preference, but each one brings its own charm to the recipe.

Options for Substitutions

If you have nut allergies or simply don’t have the right nuts on hand, don’t worry! You can skip the nuts altogether and still make delicious snowball cookies. For a nut-free option, consider substituting with a few tablespoons of coconut flakes for a slightly tropical twist, or you could even add a hint of vanilla extract for extra flavor. If you prefer to keep the cookie nutty but don’t have any of the traditional options, sunflower seeds can be a good replacement as well. Just be sure to finely chop whatever substitute you choose to maintain the smooth texture of the cookie.

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Ingredients for Snowball Cookies

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Here are the ingredients you’ll need for these delightful snowball cookies:

• Butter: The base of this cookie dough, butter provides the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these cookies so irresistible.
• All-purpose flour: This gives structure to the dough, allowing the cookies to hold their shape while baking.
• Powdered sugar: For sweetness and the signature dusting on top, powdered sugar is a key ingredient in snowball cookies.
• Chopped nuts: The nuts add a lovely crunch and flavor, typically pecans or walnuts, but feel free to choose your favorite nut.
• Vanilla extract: A subtle addition of vanilla enhances the sweetness and brings out the buttery flavor in the cookies.
• Salt: A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out the richness of the other ingredients.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. The combination of butter, sugar, and flour gives the cookies their soft, crumbly texture, while the nuts add an unexpected burst of flavor and crunch. And, of course, the powdered sugar coating is what makes these cookies truly unforgettable.

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Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This will create a soft base for the dough. Then, gradually add in the flour, mixing until combined. Be sure not to overwork the dough to keep it tender. If you’re using nuts, fold them in gently at this stage.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Once your dough is ready, use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form tablespoon-sized portions of the dough. Roll them into smooth balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave a little space between each one so they can spread slightly as they bake.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can go from perfectly golden to slightly overbaked very quickly.

Step 4: Coat in Powdered Sugar

Once your snowball cookies have cooled slightly (about 5 minutes), gently roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. This will give them their signature snowy appearance. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving, and roll them in powdered sugar once more if you want a heavier dusting.

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How Long to Cook Snowball Cookies

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Baking snowball cookies typically takes about 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, since oven temperatures can vary, it’s important to keep an eye on them. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges when they’re done, but they will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. Don’t worry if they look a little soft when you first take them out of the oven—once cooled, they will have the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies

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1. Use room temperature butter: Softened butter is key to creating a smooth and tender dough. Cold butter won’t incorporate as well and can lead to denser cookies.
2. Don’t overmix the dough: After adding the flour, mix until just combined. Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, crumbly texture we love.
3. Chill the dough: If you find the dough too soft to handle, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before shaping. This will make it easier to roll into balls.
4. Coat while warm: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm to ensure a perfect snowy coating. You can roll them a second time after they’ve cooled for an extra dusting if desired.
5. Use a cookie scoop: For uniform-sized cookies, use a small cookie scoop to measure the dough. This will help them bake evenly and look perfectly round.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

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1. Overbaking the Cookies: Snowball cookies are delicate and can dry out quickly. If you bake them too long, they’ll lose their melt-in-your-mouth texture. Keep an eye on the edges, and remove them from the oven when they’re just starting to turn golden.
2. Not Allowing Enough Cooling Time: While it’s tempting to dig into your freshly baked snowball cookies, letting them cool slightly before coating them in powdered sugar is essential. If you roll them in sugar while they’re too hot, the sugar will dissolve and you’ll lose that signature snowy coating.
3. Using Cold Butter: For the best texture, always make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. Cold butter will make it harder to incorporate, resulting in a denser dough.
4. Not Measuring Flour Correctly: If you pack the flour too tightly into the measuring cup, you may end up with too much, which can result in dense cookies. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off for the most accurate measurement.

What to Serve With Snowball Cookies?

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These little treats are perfect on their own, but if you’re looking to pair them with something to enhance the experience, here are a few ideas:

1. Hot Chocolate

A warm mug of rich hot chocolate pairs perfectly with these buttery cookies, especially during the colder months.

2. Coffee

The deep flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the snowball cookies, making it a perfect afternoon treat.

3. Tea

For a lighter pairing, enjoy your cookies with a cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea. The soft floral notes complement the cookies’ rich texture.

4. Milk

A classic choice, milk adds a creamy, refreshing contrast to the sweet and buttery cookies.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream

Pairing snowball cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.

6. Fruit Compote

A light fruit compote, like raspberry or strawberry, can add a burst of tartness that complements the richness of the cookies.

7. Cheese Platter

For a savory option, serve these cookies alongside a selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a unique balance of flavors.

8. Champagne or Sparkling Wine

For a celebratory treat, a glass of bubbly pairs wonderfully with the soft, sweet cookies. The effervescence cleanses the palate and makes for a festive pairing.

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Storage Instructions (and Reheating if Applicable)

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Snowball cookies are best stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you’re planning to keep them for a few days, simply store them at room temperature. They should stay soft and delicious for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for long-term storage.

To reheat snowball cookies, allow them to come to room temperature if frozen. They don’t need to be reheated in the oven, as they’re best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled. However, if you prefer a warm cookie, you can microwave them for 10-15 seconds to soften them up.

Estimated Nutrition

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Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value for each snowball cookie (based on an average-sized cookie, with nuts included):

• Calories: 150-170 per cookie
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 18-20g
• Protein: 1-2g
• Sugar: 6-8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 25mg

The exact nutrition may vary depending on the size of your cookies and the specific ingredients used, but these cookies are generally on the rich side due to their buttery composition. Enjoy in moderation!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Can I make snowball cookies without nuts?

Yes, you can make snowball cookies without nuts! Simply leave them out or substitute them with coconut flakes for a different texture and flavor.

2. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough before baking. Just shape it into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw them—just bake as usual, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

3. Can I use a different type of flour?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cookies gluten-free. However, the texture may change slightly, so make sure to follow a trusted gluten-free flour blend recipe.

4. How do I keep the powdered sugar from melting into the cookies?

The key is to let the cookies cool for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar. This way, the sugar will stay intact and create that signature snowy appearance.

5. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can use salted butter, but it will alter the balance of flavors slightly. If you do, consider reducing the amount of added salt in the recipe.

6. How can I make the cookies more festive?

For a holiday twist, you can add a small amount of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, or even a splash of peppermint extract. You can also use colored sugar instead of powdered sugar for a fun, festive look.

7. Can I make the cookies smaller?

Yes! You can make smaller snowball cookies by using a teaspoon instead of a tablespoon to scoop the dough. Just adjust the baking time to about 8-10 minutes.

8. How can I make my snowball cookies fluffier?

To make your snowball cookies fluffier, try sifting the flour before adding it to the dough. This will help incorporate air into the mixture, giving the cookies a lighter texture.

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Conclusion

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Snowball cookies are the perfect addition to any holiday table or a simple treat to enjoy throughout the year. Their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet, snowy coating are always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because, these cookies will never disappoint.

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