Pecan Snowball Cookies are delightful little treats that melt in your mouth, making them a holiday classic. These cookies are perfectly crumbly and coated with a sweet layer of confectioners’ sugar. Combining finely chopped pecans with a buttery dough, they deliver a nostalgic flavor that brings warmth to any gathering. Whether you refer to them as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, they remain a favorite across cultures. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious morsels!

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Snowball Cookies

There are countless reasons to love pecan snowball cookies. First, they are incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Second, the combination of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans creates a delightful texture that everyone enjoys. Third, they are versatile, fitting in perfectly with holiday celebrations or as a sweet treat at any time. Fourth, these cookies can be made gluten-free with simple ingredient swaps. Fifth, they are perfect for sharing, making them a great choice for potlucks and gatherings. Lastly, they bring a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of favorite family recipes.

Ingredients for Pecan Snowball Cookies

Gather these items:

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

How to Make Pecan Snowball Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cream the butter and sugar together using a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Step 2: Add vanilla extract and beat on medium speed until fully incorporated. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, beating on low speed until just combined. Mix in the finely chopped pecans until evenly incorporated. Then increase the mixer speed to high and beat the dough for 2 minutes until it has a more breadcrumb-like texture and is less dry enough to form a ball with your hands.
Step 3: Line two half sheet baking pans with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Scoop a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a 1-inch ball using your hands. Place the balls about an inch apart on the baking sheets. Once full, transfer the sheets to the refrigerator and chill dough balls for one hour.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled cookies for 15 to 18 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
Step 5: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm, roll each cookie in confectioners’ sugar until completely coated. Transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool fully. Once cooled completely, roll the cookies again in confectioners’ sugar to achieve the classic snowball finish.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pecan Snowball Cookies

Keep these in mind:

These cookies are perfect for sharing during the holiday season.
Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
For added flavor, consider using pecan powder cookies for a richer taste.
Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.

Best Ways to Serve Pecan Snowball Cookies

These cookies can be enjoyed in various ways:

Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Include them in holiday dessert trays for a beautiful presentation.
Pair them with chocolate for an indulgent twist, creating the best pecan snowball cookies with chocolate.

Delicious Pecan Snowball Cookies for Every Occasion - Pecan Snowball Cookies - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Pecan Snowball Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they will last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature and roll them in confectioners’ sugar again for that fresh look.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Snowball Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Pecan Snowball Cookies?

The secret lies in the texture of the dough and the quality of the butter. Using high-quality unsalted butter ensures a rich flavor. Also, make sure not to overmix the dough after adding the flour.

Can I make Pecan Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Yes! These cookies can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the dough, roll it into balls, and freeze them. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pecan Snowball Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with sugar. Also, chill the dough balls before baking to maintain their shape and texture.

Variations of Pecan Snowball Cookies You Can Try

There are several delightful variations you can experiment with:

Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist on the traditional pecan cookie recipe with powdered sugar.
Try making gluten-free pecan snowball cookies by substituting the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
For a different flavor, incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough.
Explore creamy pecan snowball cookie variations by adding a cream cheese filling to the center before rolling in sugar.

For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes, or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a delightful treat. If you’re looking for something festive, consider mini cranberry cheesecakes for your next gathering. You can also learn about the caramel apple cheesecake bars that pair wonderfully with these cookies.

For more information on the health benefits of pecans, you can visit Healthline.