Classic Snowball Cookies Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a handy guide for whipping up delectable snowball cookies for your holiday treats

Snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, are quintessential holiday treats that melt in your mouth with a delightful powdered sugar coating. These miniature wonders are not only sumptuously delicious but also easy to make. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to cull forth a batch of irresistible snowball cookies.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for coating
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work well)

Equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or teaspoon

Step 1: Assemble your ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have all the ingredients measured and ready. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream butter and sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for striking the desired texture of the snowball cookies.

Step 3: Add vanilla extract

Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the vanilla extract. Mix until the vanilla is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add chopped nuts

Fold in the finely chopped nuts of your choice, such as pecans or walnuts. The nuts not only add a delightful crunch but also enhance the flavor of the cookies.

Step 6: Shape the dough

Using a cookie scoop or a teaspoon, portion out small amounts of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.

Step 7: Bake the cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking. The cookies will firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool slightly

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This brief cooling period helps the cookies set and makes them easier to handle.

Step 9: Coat with powdered sugar

Once the cookies are completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar until generously coated. This step gives the cookies their signature "snowball" appearance.

Step 10: Double coat (Optional)

For an extra snowy effect, you can double-coat the cookies by rolling them in powdered sugar a second time. This step is purely for aesthetics and is entirely optional.

Step 11: Store in an airtight container

Store the finished snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.

Step 12: Enjoy!

Your classic snowball cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! These little bites of buttery goodness make a perfect addition to holiday cookie platters, and their simplicity makes them a great year-round treat.

Do feel free to get creative with the nuts or even add a hint of citrus zest for a quirky twist on the classic recipe. Savor your homemade snowball cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful and comforting treat.