Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treats featuring a tender crumb, rich buttery flavor, and the perfect crunch of toasted pecans. These classic cookies balance softness and nuttiness perfectly, making them ideal for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or cozy afternoon indulgences. This foolproof recipe ensures perfect results every time.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: About 3 dozen cookies 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (plus additional for rolling)
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Toast the Pecans: Begin by toasting the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. This enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the cookies.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light, fluffy, and creamy. This creates the rich buttery base and gentle sweetness essential to the cookies.
  3. Mix in Vanilla and Flour: Add the vanilla extract and then gradually incorporate the sifted all-purpose flour and salt. Stir gently just until combined to maintain a tender cookie texture without overmixing.
  4. Fold in the Pecans: Carefully fold in the toasted, chopped pecans, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough for balanced nutty flavor and crisp bites.
  5. Shape the Cookies: Form the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden—avoid overbaking to preserve the delicate texture.
  7. Roll in Powdered Sugar: While still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar, coating thoroughly. For an extra snowy appearance, roll them again once cooled.

Notes

  • Use butter softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
  • Toast pecans thoroughly, stirring constantly to avoid burning and ensure even flavor.
  • Mix dough just until combined to prevent tough cookies caused by overmixing.
  • Use fresh powdered sugar for coating as it clings better and provides a cleaner appearance.
  • Chill the dough before baking if possible to help cookies hold their shape and enhance flavor.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Contains Gluten (can be adapted to Gluten Free with substitute flour)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 45mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: snowball cookies, pecan cookies, buttery cookies, holiday cookies, nutty cookies, melt-in-mouth cookies