Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
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These delectable little Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies may look delicate, but they will give your taste buds a winning combination of crunchy nuts and smooth butter that’ll have them begging for more.
Plus, you can whip up a whole batch in no time!
The combination of crunchy pecans and creamy butter creates a flavor that’s unique to these little treats. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make with only five simple ingredients—so you can quickly whip up a batch when you’ve got an unexpected craving for something sweet.
So if you’re looking for a delicious cookie recipe that won’t take up all your time and energy, this one is definitely a winner.
Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.
What is the difference between a snowball cookie and a Russian tea cake?
Oddly enough, they are the same thing! You may also hear them referred to as Mexican wedding cookies. They are just named differently depending on which region you are from. So, it doesn’t really matter what you call them, but I am sure you’ll love them!
What type of sugar is used for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
This recipe for pecan snowball cookies is best with powdered sugar. Regular sugar won’t give the cookies the right texture.
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe Variations
- For a subtle hint of cinnamon flavor, add one teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough mix.
- If you prefer your cookies with a bit more sweetness, swap out some of the butter for brown sugar or honey.
- For an extra dose of crunch, top your cookies with chopped walnuts or almonds before baking. They make for a delicious garnish!
- To make these treats even more indulgent, dip half the cookie in melted white chocolate after baking and decorate with festive sprinkles.
What are some tips for shaping the cookies?
- Don’t use melted butter when making the dough. It will make it stickier and will be harder to shape.
- Wet your hands, so the cookie dough doesn’t stick to your fingers.
Ingredients:
- Butter softened
- Powdered sugar divided
- Vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- All-purpose flour
- Finely chopped pecans
How to make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies:
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Step 2. In a mixing bowl, start by adding the butter.
Then, fold in the flour.
Then, mix in the powdered sugar.
Lastly, fold in the vanilla extract.
Blend until a smooth dough forms.
Step 3. Fold the chopped pecans into the dough mixture.
Step 4. Wet your hands and form the dough into 36 evenly-sized balls of dough.
Step 5. Place the balls of dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes.
Step 6. Allow the cookies to cool completely.
Step 7. Place the cup of powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
Step 8. Roll the cookies in the powdered sugar.
Now, ready to serve.
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Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 Sticks of butter softened
- ½ + 1 C. Powdered sugar divided
- 2 tsp. Vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 ¼ C. All purpose flour
- 1 C. Finely chopped pecans
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Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Add the butter, ½ cup powdered sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and flour to a mixing bowl. Blend until a smooth dough forms.
- Fold the chopped pecans into the dough mixture.
- Wet your hands and form the dough into 36 evenly sized balls of dough.
- Place the balls of dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely.
- Place the cup of powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
- Roll the cookies in the powdered sugar and serve.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition
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How long should you bake Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
The buttery pecan snowball cookies take about 12 minutes to make. You can add another minute or two if needed, but be careful not to overbake the cookies.
Do you need to chill the dough before baking Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Nope! This is a no-chill recipe, so you can prepare the dough and start baking them right away. How easy is that?
What can you substitute for pecans in Pecan Snowball Cookies?
You can swap the pecans for walnuts, crushed almonds, pistachios, chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even raisins.
Do you need to use a mixer to make the dough for Pecan Snowball Cookies?
No, you can mix the pecan snowball cookies by hand with a wooden spoon. If you use an electric mixer, you will most likely overmix the dough, which leads to dry and crumbly cookies.
What is the best way to store Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
They can be stored at room temperature for up to 7 days. They are best when served within the first couple of days, but will last about a week.
How long will Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies stay fresh?
They will stay fresh for 1 week at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw on the counter before serving and enjoy!
Do you need to grease the baking pan?
No, the butter in the pecan snowball cookies will keep the cookies from sticking to the pan. Plus, using parchment paper is a big help too!
Do you need to use parchment paper when baking Pecan Snowball Cookies?
It’s best to use parchment paper to prevent them from sticking. You could also use a silicone baking mat as well. Those are great for baking cookies!
Can you freeze Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Yep! Cool the cookies and freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can you use shortening instead of butter for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?
We highly recommend following the pecan snowball cookies recipe and sticking with softened butter. However, it’s fine to make the swap. Shortening tends to make the cookies lighter and fluffier, so it’s all about preference.
More Delicious Cookie Recipes
Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies – Tender sweet treats!
German Chocolate Brownie Cookies – Great for the chocolate lovers out there!
Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies – Super popular recipe!
Thumbprint Cookies – These cookies are bright and flavorful!
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