Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies: The Ultimate Cookie Recipe
Introduction to Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that melts in your mouth, look no further than Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies. These little snowball-shaped cookies are not only easy to make, but they also provide a deliciously nutty flavor combined with the sweetness of powdered sugar. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are a favorite among both kids and adults alike!
A Personal Story Behind My Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Journey
I still remember the first time I tasted these delightful cookies at my grandmother’s house during the holidays. She would always have a batch ready, and the moment I bit into one, I was hooked! The buttery texture and crunchy pecans were simply heavenly. Since then, I’ve made it a tradition to bake these cookies, sharing them with friends and family, and creating new memories around this beloved recipe.
What Makes This Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe Special?
What sets these buttery pecan snowball cookies apart is their unique texture and rich flavor. The combination of finely minced pecans and the soft buttery dough creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is truly unforgettable. Moreover, these cookies are versatile; you can easily add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch of warmth and spice. Plus, they are simple enough to whip up for a last-minute gathering!
The Full Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups minced pecans
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1/4 cup of sugar until fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that light texture.
- Add vanilla: Mix in 2 tsp of vanilla extract until well combined.
- Sift and combine: Sift together 2 cups of flour and 1/2 tsp of salt. Gradually stir this mixture into the butter mixture until just incorporated.
- Incorporate pecans: Gently mix in 2 cups of minced pecans with a wooden spoon. Don’t worry if the dough looks crumbly; it should resemble sand but be moldable into balls.
- Shape the cookies: Shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Remember, the cookies will maintain their size during baking, so don’t make them too big!
- Bake: Place the cookie balls on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 25 minutes, or until they are lightly golden.
- Dust with powdered sugar: Once the cookies have cooled slightly, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for that classic snowball look!
- Enjoy: Indulge in your delightful Pecan Sandies Cookies!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
These cookies are perfect for serving alongside a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough to elevate the flavor profile. You can also try rolling the cookies in finely chopped chocolate or coconut for a different texture. For special occasions, package them in decorative boxes as gifts, and watch everyone light up with joy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, shape it into balls, and freeze them. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Each type of nut will bring its unique flavor to the cookies!
How should I store the cookies?
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, adding chocolate chips is a delicious variation! Just keep in mind it will change the traditional flavor.
Enjoy baking these delicious Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies, and make sure to share them with loved ones for the best experience!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 180
- Servings: 24 cookies
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 cups minced pecans
- powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Sift together the flour and salt, then stir into the butter mixture.
- Mix in the minced pecans with a wooden spoon.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls.
- Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 25 minutes.
- Once cooled, sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Enjoy your cookies!