Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe

I absolutely adore sharing this Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe because every bite feels like a little celebration in your mouth. These cookies have that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture with a rich, buttery flavor accented by the toasted pecans, then generously dusted in powdered sugar. To me, they bring a warm, nostalgic feeling of cozy gatherings and holiday cheer, and I find myself coming back to this recipe whenever I crave a special treat that’s both simple and utterly delicious.

Why You'll Love This Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe

What I really love about this recipe is how it balances the delicate sweetness with a buttery richness that’s simply irresistible. The pecans add a lovely crunch and a nutty depth that elevates the classic snowball cookie to something even more special. Whenever I bite into one, I get that soft crumble that nearly melts away before giving way to a pleasant nutty crunch and that pristine powdered sugar coating that makes these cookies look like little snowy gems.

Preparing this recipe is such a joy because it’s straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment or complicated steps. I appreciate that the dough comes together quickly, and you only need simple, everyday ingredients. The process of rolling the cookies in powdered sugar twice is my favorite part—it creates that dreamy, snowy exterior that somehow feels both festive and comforting.

These cookies are my go-to for almost every special occasion—holiday parties, family gatherings, or even just an afternoon tea. They’re so versatile that they fit seamlessly into a dessert platter alongside chocolate and fruit treats, and they make a wonderful gift when packaged in pretty tins or boxes. Honestly, once you try this Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe, I think it’ll become a beloved classic in your kitchen too.

Ingredients You'll Need

The ingredients for this recipe are simple and essential, each playing an important role in building the flavor, texture, and look of these beautiful cookies. From the creamy unsalted butter which lends richness, to the finely chopped pecans for crunch, every component contributes to the final magic of the cookies.

• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature to ensure the dough becomes light and fluffy.
• Powdered sugar (for dough): Adds sweetness while helping create that delicate texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance sweetness and enhance flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cookie’s flavor.
• All-purpose flour: The base structure for the dough, creating that tender crumble.
• Chopped pecans: Finely chopped for texture; toasting them beforehand intensifies their flavor.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): Essential for coating the cookies in that classic snowy finish.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off easily once done.

Step 2: In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This aeration is key to giving the cookies their tender texture.

Step 3: Add the salt and vanilla extract, mixing briefly to combine. Then, gradually mix in the flour at a low speed, just until everything is incorporated—you want to avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 4: Fold the finely chopped pecans into the dough by hand, making sure they’re evenly distributed for that perfect nutty crunch in every bite.

Step 5: Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to bake without merging.

Step 6: Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the bottoms turn a light golden color. Watch them closely to avoid overbaking; the cookies should still look pale on top.

Step 7: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes—warm enough to handle but not hot. While they’re still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat them with the first layer of that snowy finish.

Step 8: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they are fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again to build up a thick, snowy coating that’s signature to this recipe.

Step 9: Serve and enjoy! These cookies are delightful fresh but also hold up beautifully for days after baking.

Servings and Timing

This Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe yields about 24 servings, perfect for sharing or gifting. I find the prep time to be around 15 minutes, with baking taking 8 to 10 minutes per batch. Factoring in cooling and rolling in powdered sugar twice, the total time needed is roughly 45 minutes. There’s a short resting time on the pan post-baking to make sure the sugar coating sticks nicely and the flavors settle just right.

How to Serve This Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe

When I serve these cookies, I love pairing them with a hot cup of tea or a fresh pot of coffee—the buttery, nutty flavors really shine alongside a warm drink. If you’re hosting a holiday party or casual get-together, arranging them on a festive platter with sprigs of fresh holly or cinnamon sticks adds a charming touch.

I also enjoy offering these cookies alongside complementary desserts like spiced apple pies or creamy puddings. If you want to elevate your presentation, dusting them lightly again just before serving and adding a few whole pecans on the side makes for an inviting display. For beverage pairings beyond tea and coffee, a glass of sweet dessert wine or a lightly spiced cocktail pairs wonderfully with the pecan and vanilla notes.

I usually serve these cookies at room temperature, which lets the buttery richness come through perfectly, but I’ve found some family members also enjoy them slightly chilled for a firmer texture. For portion sizes, these cookies are small but satisfying, making them ideal for serving as bite-sized treats during festive celebrations or simply as a comforting snack any day of the week.

Variations

Over the years, I’ve experimented with a few fun twists on the classic Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe. One great substitution is swapping out the pecans for chopped walnuts or pistachios, which offers a slightly different flavor profile but just as much crunch.

If you need a gluten-free option, I recommend using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. It works very well here without compromising texture. For those looking for a vegan variation, I’ve had success replacing the butter with a high-quality vegan butter and using a powdered sugar brand that’s refined sugar-free. The cookies remain tender and flavorful with these swaps.

I occasionally add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a spiced touch that makes these cookies perfect for cooler months. Another fun twist is dipping half of each snowball cookie in melted dark chocolate after cooling, then letting the chocolate set for a decadent finish. While baking times stay consistent, you could also try baking smaller or larger cookies—just keep an eye on baking time to prevent overbaking.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness and prevent the powdered sugar coating from drying out. I find they keep well for up to one week this way without losing that fresh-baked charm.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! To freeze, I arrange the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

I recommend serving these cookies at room temperature, but if you prefer them warm, a quick 5-8 second zap in the microwave revives their buttery softness beautifully. Avoid reheating too long or in the oven, as that can dry them out and melt the powdered sugar coating. A gentle warming keeps the cookies tasting fresh and perfectly tender.

FAQs

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans in this recipe?

Absolutely! Walnuts work wonderfully as a substitute for pecans and will give the cookies a slightly different but equally delicious nutty flavor. Just chop them finely and toast them lightly for the best taste.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ideally one that includes xanthan gum to help maintain the dough’s structure. The texture may be slightly different but still tender and tasty.

What is the best way to soften butter for this recipe?

To soften butter quickly, leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. If you’re short on time, you can cut it into small cubes to speed softening but avoid melting it, which could affect the dough texture.

Why do I need to roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?

Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while warm ensures the sugar adheres and melts slightly to the surface. Doing it again after cooling creates that signature thick, snowy coating that’s visually beautiful and adds a delicate sweet layer.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling it into balls for easier handling and better texture in the baked cookies.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe a try because it’s become one of my favorite ways to bring a little extra joy into everyday moments or special celebrations. From the buttery softness to the nutty pecans and the delicate sugared finish, these cookies feel like a warm hug in every bite. Baking them is simple, satisfying, and the results never fail to impress family and friends. Happy baking!

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