SNOWBALL COOKIES

 

Snowball Cookies: A Melt-in-Your-Mouth Holiday Classic

Few holiday treats bring the same nostalgic joy as Snowball Cookies—those buttery, nutty, powdered sugar-coated delights that seem to appear at every cookie exchange and holiday party. Also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, these delicate little rounds are a timeless favorite for good reason.

With their crumbly texture and melt-in-your-mouth finish, Snowball Cookies are as easy to make as they are to love. Whether you're baking for Christmas, a winter gathering, or just because, this simple recipe will make your kitchen smell amazing and your cookie tin feel complete.

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Why You’ll Love These Snowball Cookies:

• ❄️ Festive & Fun – They look like snowballs, perfect for the holiday season

• 🥄 Easy to Make – Just a few pantry staples, no complicated steps

• 💝 Great for Gifting – They travel well and stay fresh for days

• 🌰 Nutty & Buttery – Rich flavor with a perfect crumbly bite

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Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup finely chopped nuts (traditionally walnuts or pecans)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Make the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and mix well.

Gradually stir in the flour and salt until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts.

3. Shape the Cookies

Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart (they won’t spread much).

4. Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.

5. Roll in Powdered Sugar

Let cookies cool for about 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Place on a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a thick, snowy coating.

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Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies:

• Don’t Overbake: They should be just barely golden on the bottom.

• Cool Before Second Roll: Double coating helps the sugar stick and gives that snowy look.

• Finely Chop the Nuts: A food processor works great to get small, even pieces.

• Make Ahead: The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking.

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Variations to Try:

• Add Mini Chocolate Chips for a chocolatey twist

• Swap the Nuts – Try hazelnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts

• Citrus Zest – Add a little orange or lemon zest for a fresh, fragrant touch

• Spiced Snowballs – Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth

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Storing Your Cookies:

• Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

• Freeze: Snowball cookies freeze beautifully—up to 3 months. Just thaw and re-roll in powdered sugar if needed.

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Final Thoughts:

Snowball Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a tradition. Whether you call them Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or just “those powdered sugar balls Grandma made,” they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.

So preheat your oven, dust off your mixing bowl, and bring a little snowy magic into your kitchen. Just be warned—they disappear fast!