Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

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There’s something so magical about biting into a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that’s dusted with sweet powdered sugar. These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are the epitome of holiday cheer, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying by a crackling fire. Packed with nutty pecan goodness and a hint of vanilla, they’re an irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for more.

A Classic Holiday Cookie with a Buttery Twist

Pecan snowball cookies, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes, are a timeless classic. Their delicate, crumbly texture paired with the sweet coating of powdered sugar makes them a festive favorite. This recipe elevates the classic with rich, buttery pecans that give these cookies their warm, nutty flavor.

Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, a holiday party, or just craving something comforting with your cup of tea, these cookies are guaranteed to hit the spot. They’re simple to make, require minimal ingredients, and will fill your kitchen with the heavenly aroma of butter and vanilla.

Ingredients for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

To create these festive and buttery treats, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component brings its own unique touch to these cookies, making them a holiday favorite.

• Unsalted Butter – The foundation of these cookies, butter adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor. Be sure to use room-temperature butter for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar – Used in both the dough and as a coating, powdered sugar gives these cookies their signature sweetness and velvety finish.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base of the dough, providing structure to the cookies while keeping them soft and tender.
• Pecans – Finely chopped pecans add a warm, nutty flavor and delightful crunch to every bite. Toasting them beforehand enhances their taste even further.
• Vanilla Extract – A touch of vanilla brings a hint of warmth and enhances the buttery flavor of the cookies.
• Salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and highlights the flavors of the other ingredients.

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How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

These cookies are incredibly simple to make, and the process is just as satisfying as the end result. Follow these steps to create a batch of delicious pecan snowball cookies:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the room-temperature butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3:
Mix in the vanilla extract and salt, ensuring everything is well combined. Gradually add the flour, mixing just until the dough comes together. Stir in the finely chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.

Step 5:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.

Step 6:
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat them generously. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7:
Once cooled, give the cookies a second roll in powdered sugar for an extra snowy appearance. Serve and enjoy!

How Long to Bake Pecan Snowball Cookies

The baking time for these cookies is quick and straightforward, but it’s important to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake. Here’s a guide to perfect cookies every time:

• Small Cookies (1-inch balls) – Bake for 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
• Medium Cookies (1.5-inch balls) – Bake for 12-14 minutes.

The cookies are done when the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale. Avoid browning the tops, as the cookies should maintain their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

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How to Store Leftover Cookies

These pecan snowball cookies store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option for the holidays. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Room Temperature – Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freezer – For longer storage, place the cookies in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Pecan Snowball Cookies

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips:

• Toast the Pecans – Toasting the pecans before chopping enhances their flavor and gives the cookies a deeper nutty aroma.
• Chill the Dough (Optional) – If your dough feels too soft to roll, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make shaping easier.
• Coat While Warm – Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm to help the sugar adhere better.
• Double the Sugar Coating – For the prettiest “snowball” effect, give the cookies a second coating of powdered sugar once they’ve cooled completely.

With these tips, your pecan snowball cookies will be a hit at any holiday gathering!

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