Crafting the perfect Cream Cheese Pecan Snowball Christmas Cookies is a joyful experience that brings warmth to your kitchen. Imagine the sweet aroma of cookies baking, filling the air during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. These cookies have a rich cream cheese base combined with buttery goodness and a hint of sweetness from powdered sugar, making them absolutely irresistible. The finely chopped pecans not only lend a delightful crunch but also infuse every bite with a nutty richness that will have your friends and family coming back for more. With no chilling time required, you can whip these delightful treats up quickly, even amidst the chaos of holiday preparations. Gather your loved ones around, because these cookies are perfect for sharing and creating cherished memories together.
Why This Recipe Works
Crafting the perfect Cream Cheese Pecan Snowball Christmas Cookies involves a delicate balance of rich cream cheese, buttery perfection, and just the right amount of sweetness from powdered sugar. The addition of finely chopped pecans not only adds flavor but also provides a delightful crunch, making every bite a memorable experience. No chilling time is required, which allows for a quicker baking session, perfect for those bustling holiday moments.
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Pecan Snowball Christmas Cookies
These cookies are not only simple to make, but they also bring a festive spirit to any holiday gathering. The melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with the nutty flavor of pecans, creates a nostalgic comfort that reminds us of home and family traditions. Plus, rolling these cookies in powdered sugar gives them a festive touch—perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus 2 tablespoons, separated
- 1 1/3 cups pecan pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar for coating
Preparing the Cream Cheese Pecan Snowball Christmas Cookies
Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is key for ensuring even baking of your cookies.
Prepare the Pecan Mixture
Next, grab a food processor. In it, pulse the pecan pieces along with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until they are finely chopped. This step slightly sweetens the pecans and helps incorporate them into the cookies more seamlessly.
Cream Together the Base Ingredients
In a medium bowl, use either a standing mixer or a hand mixer to combine the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, and softened butter. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This might take a couple of minutes, but it’s worth it for that perfect texture.
Mix in Vanilla and Dry Ingredients
Once your cream cheese mixture is ready, add the vanilla extract and mix until well incorporated. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and sea salt, beating until fully combined. You’ll see the dough forming beautifully.
Incorporate the Pecans
Now it’s time to gently fold in the finely chopped pecans. Use low speed on your mixer or simply stir with a spatula until the mixture is evenly distributed. You want to ensure every bite has that delightful nutty flavor.
Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls or use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure there’s some space between each cookie. This helps them bake evenly and gives them room to spread.
Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cookies for about 14 to 17 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges and bottoms just start to turn lightly golden—a good sign of cookie perfection.
Roll in Powdered Sugar
After taking them out, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. While they’re still warm, roll them in powdered sugar for that snowy touch. If you’re feeling extra festive, roll them again once they’re completely cooled!
Storing Your Cookies
Lastly, store your finished cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last for about a week at room temperature—if they last that long!
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful cookies at holiday gatherings, alongside a warm cup of cocoa, or share them as gifts in festive tins. They bring a smile every time, making them a holiday favorite!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t skip the second rolling in powdered sugar; it adds to the aesthetics and flavor!
Variations
- Experiment by mixing in chocolate chips or dried cranberries for added flavor and texture.
- Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty profile.
Pairing Ideas
Pair these lovely cookies with a cup of hot chocolate, spiced chai tea, or even a glass of cold eggnog to enhance the holiday spirit.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. How should I store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week.
3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze well. Store them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for later enjoyment.
4. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute with a similar spreadable cheese or try a vegan cream cheese for a non-dairy option.
5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Bringing the magic of Christmas into your kitchen with Cream Cheese Pecan Snowball Christmas Cookies is as delightful as the cookies themselves. With their rich flavor and festive appeal, these treats have the potential to become a cherished holiday tradition. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or stored for later—either way, they are sure to warm hearts and homes this holiday season.
Print
Cream Cheese Pecan Snowball Christmas Cookies
These cookies are a festive delight, combining rich cream cheese with buttery texture and a nutty pecan crunch. Ideal for holiday gatherings and creating memories.
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus 2 tablespoons, separated
- 1 1/3 cups pecan pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Pulse pecan pieces with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until finely chopped.
- Cream together softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and butter until smooth.
- Mix in vanilla, then gradually add flour and sea salt.
- Fold in finely chopped pecans.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 14 to 17 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar, and cool before rolling again.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for easier mixing.
Consider rolling in powdered sugar twice for a better appearance.
Dough can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 16
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 25
