Pecan Snowball Cookies

Name: Pecan Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; ½ cup confectioners' sugar (plus more for rolling); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup pecans, finely chopped

By:

Marry

Published:

November 18, 2025

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Pecan Snowball Cookies are the charm of every dessert spread, effortlessly drawing smiles and warm memories from anyone fortunate enough to savor one. These treats are tender and crumbly, perfectly balancing the richness of butter with the nutty goodness of pecans. As you take a bite, the powdered sugar coats your lips in the most delightful way, making you crave just one more. Picture this: a cozy afternoon, perhaps during the holidays, when the sweet scent of these cookies fills your home like a warm hug. It’s the kind of treat that sparks joy, just like those special moments shared with family. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or simply treating yourself to something special, Pecan Snowball Cookies are sure to bring a smile. Let’s roll up our sleeves and make this delicious classic together!

Why This Recipe Works

Crafted from simple ingredients, Pecan Snowball Cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of finely chopped pecans with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible. The balance of butter and confectioners’ sugar creates a light, crumbly cookie that rewards patience in both preparation and baking, ensuring a perfect outcome every time. Truly, the magic is in how these ingredients blend together, turning into a delectable treat loved by many.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Snowball Cookies

These Pecan Snowball Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also evoke warm memories of holiday gatherings and cozy family moments. Their delicate sweetness and buttery richness make them perfect for any occasion, from casual afternoons to festive celebrations. The enchanting snowball-like appearance dusted in sugar adds a charming touch that’s sure to impress. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, they create connections through taste and tradition.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
½ cup confectioners’ sugar (plus more for rolling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup pecans, finely chopped

Preparing Your Pecan Snowball Cookies

Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start with a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed and cream together the softened butter and ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies light and airy.

Incorporate Flavor and Nuts

Next, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture, then beat on medium speed until fully incorporated. Gradually sift in 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour and mix on low speed until everything comes together. Now it’s time for the star ingredient: fold in ¾ cup of finely chopped pecans. Mix until they’re evenly distributed. Increase the speed to high and continue beating for 2 minutes until the dough has a breadcrumb-like texture. This will make it easy to shape your cookies later on.

Shape the Cookies

To shape your cookies, prepare two half-sheet baking pans by lining them with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Scoop out a tablespoon of the dough and roll it into a 1-inch ball using your hands. Place the cookie balls an inch apart on the baking sheets. After filling them, chill the trays in the refrigerator for one hour. Chilling helps maintain their shape while baking.

Bake the Cookies

Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After your dough has chilled, bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown at the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking; you’ll want that perfect melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Sugar Coating

Once you remove the cookies from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, roll them in a bowl filled with confectioners’ sugar until completely coated. This adds that snowy finish! Afterward, transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. For a delightful touch, roll them in confectioners’ sugar again once cooled for an extra layer of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Pecan Snowball Cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations, tea parties, or simply as a delightful afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Imagine sitting back, enjoying their buttery flavor while savoring each moment with good company—such a cozy experience!

Tips for Success

Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. This will help create that light texture you desire.
Don’t skip chilling the dough! This step retains the cookie shape, resulting in those perfect spheres you want.
The second roll in sugar is key! It gives that coveted snowy look, enhancing not just the appearance but the sweetness.

Variations

Want to add a twist? Experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or almonds for a unique take on this classic recipe. Additionally, a touch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of orange zest can elevate the flavor, giving a delightful surprise to your taste buds.

Storage Tips

To keep your Pecan Snowball Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For those deeper cravings, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Nothing beats the taste of a cookie straight from the oven, but these are still delicious even after a spell in the freezer.

FAQs

1. Can I make Pecan Snowball Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, roll it into balls, and refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a quick option for last-minute gatherings.

2. How can I tell when the cookies are done?
The edges should be golden brown. Although the tops might look pale, they should feel firm to the touch.

3. Are these cookies gluten-free?
You can adapt this recipe using a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to adjust for texture and consistency.

4. What can I use instead of pecans?
Feel free to substitute with any nuts you prefer, like walnuts or hazelnuts. Each will give its own twist!

5. Can I use salted butter instead?
While salted butter can work, it may slightly alter the taste, so adjust the amount of salt accordingly for best results.

Pecan Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend nostalgia and flavor. Their buttery, nutty essence will melt in your mouth, offering a comforting experience reminiscent of cherished moments. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or share with friends and family to create new memories around the table.