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Indulge in the festive charm of Pecan Snowball Cookies! These delicate, buttery treats are rolled in powdered sugar to resemble snowballs, making them a perfect addition to any holiday celebration. With their nutty crunch and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are sure to become a family favorite.
Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace or shared as a gift in a festive cookie tin, these cookies bring warmth and joy to the season. Simple to prepare and absolutely delightful, Pecan Snowball Cookies are a timeless classic you’ll love baking again and again.
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Full Recipe:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- Additional confectioners’ sugar for coating (1-2 cups)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners.
- Beat butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between cookies.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Avoid overbaking.
- Let cookies cool for 3-5 minutes on the baking sheets, then transfer them to a wire rack.
- Roll the warm cookies in confectioners’ sugar and allow them to cool completely.
- Roll the cooled cookies in confectioners’ sugar once more before serving or storing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 100 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
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Pecan Snowball Cookies: A Timeless Holiday Delight
When it comes to holiday baking, few treats evoke as much nostalgia and warmth as Pecan Snowball Cookies. These buttery, nutty confections, rolled in powdered sugar to resemble miniature snowballs, are a cherished tradition across generations. Whether you’re gathering around the kitchen with loved ones or crafting holiday gifts from the heart, these cookies are a symbol of joy, connection, and festive cheer.
A Brief History of Snowball Cookies
Snowball cookies have been a staple in many cultures, each adding its own unique twist to the recipe. Their origins can be traced back to medieval Arab culinary traditions, where nut-based confections like shortbread were popularized. Over time, variations spread across Europe, eventually taking root in countries like Mexico, where they became known as “Mexican Wedding Cookies,” and Russia, where they’re referred to as “Russian Tea Cakes.”
In the United States, Pecan Snowball Cookies rose to prominence thanks to their simplicity and adaptability, making them a holiday favorite. The use of pecans, native to North America, adds a distinctly Southern touch to this beloved treat.
What Makes Pecan Snowball Cookies Special?
At first glance, Pecan Snowball Cookies may appear modest, but their charm lies in their texture and flavor. The cookies are:
- Buttery and Rich: The dough’s high butter content creates a melt-in-your-mouth sensation, perfectly complementing the nutty pecans.
- Delicate and Tender: Finely chopped pecans and powdered sugar make the cookies crumbly yet tender.
- Festively Snow-Dusted: A generous coating of powdered sugar not only sweetens the cookies but also gives them their signature snowball appearance, making them a perfect visual addition to any dessert table.
Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for entertaining, allowing guests to enjoy a small indulgence without overwhelming their appetite.
The Allure of Pecans
Pecans are the star of this recipe, offering a unique flavor profile that sets these cookies apart from other holiday confections. Known for their buttery, slightly sweet taste, pecans add a rich depth that perfectly complements the cookie’s buttery base. Moreover, their texture provides a pleasant crunch, balancing the melt-in-your-mouth softness of the cookie.
In addition to their flavor, pecans are packed with nutrients, including healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. While these cookies are undoubtedly a treat, incorporating pecans adds a touch of wholesome goodness.
Perfect for the Holidays
Pecan Snowball Cookies embody the essence of the holiday season. They are simple to make, yet they carry a sense of elegance and tradition. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering, contributing to a cookie exchange, or preparing a heartfelt homemade gift, these cookies never fail to impress.
Additionally, they pair beautifully with classic holiday beverages like hot cocoa, spiced cider, or eggnog. The buttery sweetness of the cookies enhances the warm, comforting flavors of these drinks, creating a truly festive experience.
Baking Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
While Pecan Snowball Cookies are straightforward to prepare, a few tips can elevate your baking:
- Room Temperature Butter: Using butter at room temperature ensures it creams properly with the sugar, resulting in a smooth, airy dough.
- Finely Chop Pecans: The finer the pecans, the better they’ll incorporate into the dough, providing even distribution and a more uniform texture.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll into uniform balls and helps the cookies retain their shape during baking.
- Roll Warm Cookies in Sugar: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm helps the sugar adhere better. A second coating after cooling adds an extra snowy effect.
- Avoid Overbaking: These cookies should remain pale in color with only lightly browned bottoms. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best aspects of Pecan Snowball Cookies is their versatility. While the traditional recipe is a classic, here are some creative twists to try:
- Nut Swaps: Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. Each nut brings its own unique taste and texture to the cookie.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of maple, rum, or orange extract to the dough for a festive twist.
- Chocolate Lovers: Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the top for a more indulgent version.
- Spiced Version: Incorporate a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Storing and Sharing
Pecan Snowball Cookies are not only delightful to eat but also practical to store and share. They keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, and they can be frozen for up to three months. This makes them an excellent choice for advance baking, saving you time during the bustling holiday season.
If gifting, pack the cookies in a decorative tin or a festive box, lined with parchment paper for a charming presentation. Add a handwritten note or recipe card to make the gift even more special.
Conclusion: The Joy of Pecan Snowball Cookies
In a world of elaborate holiday desserts, Pecan Snowball Cookies stand out for their simplicity and timeless appeal. They remind us that sometimes, the most meaningful traditions are found in the simplest acts—like baking a batch of cookies to share with loved ones.
These cookies are more than just a treat; they are a symbol of togetherness, warmth, and celebration. Whether you’re baking them for the first time or continuing a cherished family tradition, Pecan Snowball Cookies are sure to bring a touch of magic to your holiday season.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the sweet aroma of Pecan Snowball Cookies fill your home with joy. Each bite is a reminder of the beauty of simple pleasures, the richness of tradition, and the sweetness of the holiday season. Happy baking! 🎄🍪
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Pecan Snowball Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
Indulge in the festive charm of Pecan Snowball Cookies! These delicate, buttery treats are rolled in powdered sugar to resemble snowballs, making them a perfect addition to any holiday celebration. With their nutty crunch and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are sure to become a family favorite.
Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace or shared as a gift in a festive cookie tin, these cookies bring warmth and joy to the season. Simple to prepare and absolutely delightful, Pecan Snowball Cookies are a timeless classic you’ll love baking again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- Additional confectioners’ sugar for coating (1-2 cups)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners.
- Beat butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between cookies.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Avoid overbaking.
- Let cookies cool for 3-5 minutes on the baking sheets, then transfer them to a wire rack.
- Roll the warm cookies in confectioners’ sugar and allow them to cool completely.
- Roll the cooled cookies in confectioners’ sugar once more before serving or storing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes