Hearty Snowball Cookies Recipe

The way the sugar coating dissolves instantly on my tongue always brings back fond memories of sneaking sweets from the kitchen counter.

I make this Snowball Cookies recipe every single year because it delivers that perfect tender texture we all crave. It is a simple, nostalgic bake that proves you do not need fancy equipment to create something truly special.

What Makes This Snowball Cookies Recipe So Special

The combination of rich butter and finely chopped pecans creates a depth of flavor that feels both elegant and comforting. I appreciate how the double coating of powdered sugar acts as a sweet seal to keep the centers incredibly tender.

You will love how quickly this dough comes together without any chilling time required before rolling. It is the ultimate low-stress recipe for filling up your holiday tins or serving at a last-minute gathering.

My secret addition of cornstarch ensures that every single cookie has that signature delicate crumb that crumbles perfectly. These Snowball Cookies stay fresh for days, making them a smart choice for gifting to friends and neighbors.

If you enjoyed this classic treat, you should definitely try my Irresistible Lemon Raspberry Cookies Recipe for a fruity twist. I also recommend baking the Zesty Oreo Cookie Balls Recipe if you want another crowd-pleasing option for your dessert table.

Snowball Cookies Ingredients Breakdown

Here is everything you need to gather from your pantry to get started:

• Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature so it creams easily with the sugar for a smooth base.
• Powdered Sugar: Used both inside the dough for sweetness and on the outside for that classic snowy coating.
• Salt: Just a pinch helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the buttery flavor profile.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that makes the cookies taste homemade and comforting.
• Cornstarch: The secret ingredient that gives these cookies their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the necessary structure to hold the cookie balls together while baking.
• Pecans: Finely chopped nuts add a delicious crunch and rich, nutty flavor to every bite.

My Method for Perfect Snowball Cookies

Let’s get baking with these simple step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare ungreased baking sheets for your cookies.
2. In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter on medium speed for about 20 seconds until it looks creamy and smooth.
3. Blend in 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and the salt, then mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the mixture, then turn the mixer to low speed and slowly add the flour, mixing just until combined.
5. Gently stir in the finely chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Scoop the dough out 1 tablespoon at a time and roll it between your palms to form smooth, round balls.
7. Place the balls on the baking sheets and bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the bottom edges are just lightly golden.
8. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes until they are safe to touch but still warm.
9. Pour the remaining 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar into a small bowl and roll each warm cookie in the sugar to coat it lightly.
10. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, then roll them in the powdered sugar a second time for a thick, generous snowy coating.

Pro Tips for Snowball Cookies

I always recommend spooning and leveling your flour carefully to avoid a dough that is too dry or crumbly. A kitchen scale is even better if you want to guarantee that light and airy texture every time.

Make sure you chop your pecans very finely so they distribute evenly throughout the Snowball Cookies. Large chunks can make the balls harder to roll and might cause them to break apart after baking.

Do not skip the second roll in powdered sugar because the first layer often melts slightly into the warm cookie. That final dusting gives them their signature snowy look and adds that extra touch of sweetness.

How to Serve This Snowball Cookies Recipe

I love arranging these white treats on a dark platter to make the powdery coating really pop for a festive presentation. They look beautiful stacked in a pyramid or nestled in a tin lined with colorful tissue paper.

Pair these Snowball Cookies with a hot mug of coffee or tea to balance out the sweetness of the sugar coating. They also make a fantastic addition to a dessert board alongside chocolate bark and gingerbread men.

If you enjoy easy baking recipes like this one, be sure to follow me on Pinterest for more inspiration.