Snowball Cookies with Powdered Sugar

These Snowball Cookies are the perfect holiday treat, buttery, crumbly, and covered in a blanket of powdered sugar that melts in your mouth. Sometimes called Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, these cookies are simple yet elegant, making them a must-have for any festive dessert table. Their soft, nutty texture and sweet snow-dusted coating capture the magic of winter in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Holiday Favorite: Perfect for Holiday cookie swaps and gift boxes.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with butter, sugar, flour, and nuts, pantry staples!
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Buttery and delicate, with the perfect amount of sweetness.
• No Chill Time Required: You can bake them right away.
• Freezer-Friendly: Great for make-ahead holiday baking.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling and coating

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This creates the signature tender crumb texture.
3. Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add flour and salt. Stir just until combined, overmixing can make the cookies dense.
4. Fold in the Nuts: Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. The nuts add a subtle crunch and nutty depth to each bite.
5. Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
6. Cool and Roll: Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Once fully cooled, roll again for a thick, snowy coating.

Tips & Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut.
• Flavor Boost: Add a hint of almond extract for a deeper aroma.
• Festive Twist: Mix a little cinnamon or cocoa powder into the powdered sugar coating for extra warmth.
• Perfect Texture: Avoid overbaking, the cookies should remain soft and crumbly inside.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store your Snowball Cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They’ll stay fresh and buttery without drying out.
• Freezer: You can freeze them for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature and roll them again in powdered sugar to refresh their snowy finish.
• Make-Ahead Option: The dough can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a warm mug of cocoa, coffee, or tea for a cozy winter afternoon.
• Include them in a holiday cookie platter with gingerbread, sugar cookies, and biscotti.
• Pair them with creamy desserts like Panna Cotta or Chocolate Mousse for a rich contrast.
• Wrap them in a festive tin or clear bag tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for preparing in advance. Bake them, cool completely, and store in an airtight container. Before serving, roll them again in powdered sugar to refresh their look and taste.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Snowball Cookies shouldn’t spread much. If yours did, it’s likely the butter was too soft or the dough was overmixed. Try chilling the dough for 20 minutes before baking to maintain their shape.

Can I use different nuts?

Yes, pecans, walnuts, or almonds all work beautifully. Toast the nuts before adding them to the dough to enhance their flavor and aroma.

How do I get that perfect “snowball” coating?

Roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm — this allows the sugar to stick perfectly. Then, roll again once cooled for a double-layered, powdery finish.

Ready to Make It?

These Snowball Cookies are the ultimate buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat that brings warmth and joy to every holiday gathering. With their classic flavor, snowy finish, and nostalgic charm, they’ll become a staple in your holiday baking rotation. Save this recipe to your Pinterest board or share it with family and friends who love cozy, homemade cookies.

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