Today, I’m thrilled to share this classic vanilla snowball cookie recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this winter wonderland of buttery, nutty goodness!
Snowball Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for coating
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
Let’s Get Baking!
- Preheat and prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Shape the cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to perfection: Slide those little snowballs into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops will still be pale – that’s exactly what we want!
- Cool and coat: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm (but not hot), gently roll them in powdered sugar. Place on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Double the delight: Once the cookies are completely cool, give them a second roll in powdered sugar for that classic snowball look.
Baking Tips for Snowball Success
- Butter temperature matters: Make sure your butter is softened, but not melted. This ensures the perfect texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Uniform size is key: Use a small cookie scoop or measuring spoon for consistently sized cookies.
- Watch the bake time: These cookies should not brown on top. Keep an eye on them and remove when the bottoms are just lightly golden.
Serving Suggestion
For the ultimate winter wonderland experience, arrange your snowball cookies on a plate dusted with a light layer of powdered sugar. It’ll look like they’re nestled in fresh snow! Serve alongside a mug of hot cocoa or a glass of cold milk for the perfect treat.
There you have it, friends! These classic vanilla snowball cookies are like little bites of holiday magic. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday gatherings, or just cozying up by the fire on a chilly evening.
Ready to create your own winter wonderland? Grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s get rolling! And remember, if you end up with powdered sugar all over your kitchen, just consider it part of the snowball cookie experience. Happy baking!
