Buttery pecan snowball cookies dusted with powdered sugar on a plate.

Why Make This Recipe

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone loves. They are simple to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack. These cookies melt in your mouth with their rich buttery flavor and crunchy pecans. Their snowy appearance, dusted with powdered sugar, makes them appealing and festive.

How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup pecans, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt
Additional powdered sugar for coating

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour, chopped pecans, and salt, mixing until combined.
Shape the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
Let them cool completely before serving.

How to Serve Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Serve these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely snack. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family. You can place them in a pretty box or on a decorative plate to make them extra special.

How to Store Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.

Tips to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Chop the pecans finely for a better texture in the cookies.
Don’t overbake them; pull them out when the bottoms are just lightly golden for a tender texture.
Roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm for a nice coating.

Variation

You can add chocolate chips or swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer a different flavor. Experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to a week before baking. You can also bake the cookies and store them for later.

2. What can I use instead of pecans?
You can use any nut you like, such as walnuts or almonds. You can even make them nut-free by just omitting the nuts.

3. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these cookies.