Sweet, Buttery, and Absolutely Addictive
Snowball Cookies are one of those timeless treats that instantly bring comfort, nostalgia, and holiday cheer. Known around the world as Pecan Snowballs, Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, or simply Christmas Snowballs, these delicate cookies are loved for their rich buttery flavor, tender crumb, and signature powdered sugar coating that makes them look like little snow-covered gems.
This refreshed, SEO-optimized 1500-word recipe article gives you everything you need to make perfect Snowball Cookies every time, along with tips, variations, storage advice, and baking secrets that elevate them from good to unforgettable.
Why Snowball Cookies Never Go Out of Style
Snowball cookies have been baked for generations—and for good reason:
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🧈 Rich, buttery taste that melts in your mouth
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🌰 Nutty crunch from pecans or walnuts
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❄️ Elegant snowball look with powdered sugar
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🍪 Easy, no-fuss recipe with pantry staples
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🎄 Perfect for Christmas platters, gifting, and celebrations
They’re proof that the simplest recipes are often the most memorable.
Ingredients for Classic Snowball Cookies
Cookie Dough
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1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
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½ cup powdered sugar
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2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
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2¼ cups all-purpose flour
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¼ teaspoon salt
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1 cup finely chopped pecans (or walnuts)
For Rolling
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1½ to 2 cups powdered sugar
How to Make Snowball Cookies (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light, fluffy, and smooth. This step is essential—proper creaming creates the cookie’s tender texture.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
Fold in the finely chopped pecans. The dough will be soft but hold together easily.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it gently between your palms to form smooth balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake the cookies for 13–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale—overbaking will make them dry.
Step 5: First Sugar Coating
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes (they will be delicate when hot).
While still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar and place on a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Second Sugar Coating (The Secret!)
Once fully cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again. This second coating gives Snowball Cookies their iconic snowy appearance and irresistible sweetness.
