Snowball Cookies Recipe with Nuts Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat that screams cozy holidays and easy baking, you’re going to adore this Snowball Cookies Recipe with Nuts Recipe. I’ve made these countless times, whether for family gatherings or last-minute cookie swaps, and they always disappear fast. They’re simple, rewarding, and just the kind of cookie that feels like a warm hug. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every little trick to get these perfect every single time!
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have all the ingredients on hand, so making these cookies is hassle-free.
- Perfect Texture: The combination of tender flour and chopped nuts creates a delicate crumb that just melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Customize: Whether you like walnuts, almonds, or pecans, this recipe welcomes your nutty preferences without missing a beat.
- Bake Ahead Friendly: These cookies store well and keep their charm over several days – no stress about serving them fresh out of the oven.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this Snowball Cookies Recipe with Nuts Recipe plays a key role to get that classic nutty and melt-away texture. The nuts add crunch and depth, the butter brings richness, and the powdered sugar isn’t just for sweetness but also helps create that tender crumb. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need and what to look for when shopping.
- Flour: You can use white all-purpose flour, spelt, whole wheat pastry flour, or even gluten-free blends like Bob’s Red Mill gluten free flour; just pick what matches your pantry and preferences.
- Chopped Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or almonds all bring a lovely crunchy contrast—feel free to pick your fave or whatever you have on hand.
- Butter or Coconut Oil: Butter gives that classic rich flavor, while coconut oil is a great dairy-free swap that still yields tender cookies.
- Powdered Sugar: This gives the cookies their melt-in-the-mouth quality and doubles as a rolling dusting after baking.
Make It Your Way
One of the best things about this Snowball Cookies Recipe with Nuts Recipe is how easily you can tweak it to fit your taste. I love swapping nuts depending on the season or what I have, and sometimes I even add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for that extra cozy touch. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!
- Nut-Free Variation: If you’re serving folks with nut allergies, omit the nuts entirely — the cookies are still delicious, just a bit less crunchy.
- Healthier Swaps: Try coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option, or use sugar-free powdered sugar for low-sugar needs.
- Festive Flavors: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of orange zest into the dough for a seasonal twist. I adore how a little orange zest brightens these up during the holidays!
Step-by-Step: How I Make Snowball Cookies Recipe with Nuts Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) so it’s ready when your dough is mixed. In a medium mixing bowl (or your stand mixer bowl if you have one), combine the softened butter with the powdered sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy — this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key because it sets the base for tender, airy cookies.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, stir together your flour and chopped nuts until evenly combined. This prevents clumping and helps distribute the nuts nicely throughout each cookie bite.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Add the dry mix into the butter and sugar bowl and stir until everything just comes together into a dough. Don’t overwork it—you want the dough mixed but still tender to keep the delicate texture.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into small balls—about 1 inch in diameter—and place them spaced on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bottoms are just starting to turn light golden brown. The cookies should still be pale on top—that’s how you know they’ll be wonderfully tender inside.
Step 5: Dust While Warm
Once the cookies come out of the oven, give them a few minutes to cool so they’re warm but not hot, then roll each one in a bowl of powdered sugar. This final step creates the signature “snowball” look and adds an irresistible sweet coating. Finish cooling on a wire rack, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Tips from My Kitchen
- Room Temperature Butter: Always soften your butter ahead of time for better creaming and smoother dough.
- Don’t Overbake: The cookies will firm up as they cool, so take them out when the edges just start to brown.
- Nut Texture: Chop your nuts finely, but not into dust—small chunks give the best crunch without overpowering.
- Extra Rolling: For the signature finish, roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm for that perfect “snowball” coating.
How to Serve Snowball Cookies Recipe with Nuts Recipe
Garnishes
I usually like to keep it simple with these cookies—just a generous dusting of powdered sugar is enough to make them look festive. But if you’re feeling fancy, a light dusting of cocoa powder mixed with sugar or a small drizzle of melted white chocolate adds a nice touch and pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor.
Side Dishes
Snowball cookies are lovely alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea, but I also love pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert. They’re super popular alongside holiday mulled wine or chilled eggnog too. Trust me, the sweet and nutty flavors balance perfectly with rich drinks or creamy sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For holidays or special occasions, I like to serve these cookies stacked in a clear glass jar tied with a festive ribbon. Another charming idea is arranging them on a platter nestled in fresh pine sprigs or dusted with edible glitter—instant wow factor and they almost look too good to eat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I always keep leftover snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and tender for about a week, but honestly, they never last that long! If you want to keep them crispier, store them with a piece of bread inside the container to absorb moisture.
Freezing
One of my favorite things is that these cookies freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling, I place them in a single layer on a tray to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to three months, which is perfect if you want to bake ahead for holiday gift-giving or spontaneous treats.
Reheating
To bring frozen snowball cookies back to life, I just let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you want that fresh-baked warmth, pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. Be careful not to overheat or they can dry out, so keep a close eye on them.
FAQs
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Can I omit nuts entirely from this Snowball Cookies Recipe with Nuts Recipe?
Yes! While the nuts add wonderful texture and flavor, you can leave them out for a nut-free version. The cookies will still be tender and delicious, just with a softer bite.
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Can I substitute the butter with something else?
Absolutely. Coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative that works well here. Just ensure it’s solid at room temperature when mixing for best results. I haven’t tried low-fat butter spreads so can’t vouch for those yet.
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Why do I need to roll the cookies in powdered sugar while warm?
Rolling while warm helps the powdered sugar stick more effectively, forming that signature snowy coating that makes snowball cookies so special.
Final Thoughts
This Snowball Cookies Recipe with Nuts Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen. It’s my go-to when I want something simple but impressive, and it always sparks compliments and smiles. Honestly, there’s something magical about those buttery, nutty cookies dusted in powdered sugar that feels like a little celebration in every bite. Give this recipe a try—you’ll see what I mean, and I’d bet these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your home too!
Print
Snowball Cookies Recipe with Nuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 45 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and buttery Snowball Cookies with a delightful nutty crunch, coated in powdered sugar for a perfect holiday treat. These cookies are easy to make and can be customized with your choice of nuts and flours.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 2 cups flour (white, spelt, whole wheat pastry, or Bob’s gluten free flour)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans
- 1 cup butter or coconut oil
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar or sugar free powdered sugar
For Rolling
- Additional powdered sugar or cocoa powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the cookies.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a medium bowl or stand mixer, combine the butter with the powdered sugar and beat until well combined and creamy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the flour and finely chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Combine Dough: Gradually mix the flour and nut mixture into the butter and sugar mixture until a uniform dough forms.
- Shape Dough: Shape the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them evenly spaced on a cookie sheet.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the cookies are lightly browned on the bottom and edges.
- Coat Cookies: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar or cocoa powder to coat thoroughly.
- Cool: Place the coated cookies on a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- You may omit the nuts if desired for a nut-free variation.
- Using flours other than the recommended types or substituting low fat butter spreads is not tested; proceed with caution and feel free to share results.
- For a festive twist, try rolling the cookies in cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.
- Try this recipe alongside holiday favorites like Crustless Pumpkin Pie for a seasonal dessert spread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
