Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Introduction

There’s something magical about the first bite of a buttery pecan snowball cookie. With their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the nutty crunch of pecans, these cookies bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia that transports me back to family gatherings during the holidays. The soft sweetness of the powdered sugar, combined with the rich flavor of butter, creates an irresistible treat that everyone seems to love. When I bake these cookies, my family gathers around the kitchen, drawn by the buttery aroma that fills the air. It’s a tradition that we cherish, making these cookies a staple in our home, especially during the festive season. They’re simple enough for everyday enjoyment but elegant enough to impress at parties. Let’s dive into the delightful process of making these delicious cookies!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in a lighter texture.

1. Add Vanilla:

• Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until fully combined.

Add Dry Ingredients

3. Incorporate Flour and Salt:

• Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the bowl. Mix on low speed until the dough is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tougher cookies.

3. Fold in Pecans:

• Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Chill the Dough

5. Refrigerate:

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they maintain their shape.

Preheat the Oven

6. Preheat:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Shape and Bake

7. Roll the Dough:

• Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

7. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale and firm but not browned.

Roll in Powdered Sugar

9. Cool and Coat:

• Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While they are still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. Once they are completely cool, roll them in powdered sugar again for an extra sweet coating.

Serve

10. Enjoy:

• Store the cookies in an airtight container and enjoy these sweet, buttery treats anytime!

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 100 kcal per cookie (based on a yield of 24 cookies)
• Servings: 24 cookies

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack with coffee or tea.
• For an elegant touch, serve them on a festive platter dusted with additional powdered sugar.
• Pair with your favorite hot beverage, such as cocoa, tea, or coffee.
• Wrap in decorative cellophane bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Enjoy them fresh or share with friends and family during a cozy get-together.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
2. Chill Longer for Better Shape: If you have time, chill the dough for an hour or more for firmer cookies.
3. Mixing: Avoid overmixing once you add the flour; this will keep the cookies tender.
4. Nut Options: If you prefer, swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
5. Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Version: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
• Spiced Cookies: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Different Nuts: Experiment with hazelnuts or macadamia nuts instead of pecans.
• Coconut Addition: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a dessert platter that includes other holiday treats like gingerbread cookies or peppermint bark.
• Pair with whipped cream and berries for a delightful dessert presentation.
• Use as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for an added crunch and flavor.
• Create a cookie bar at a party, offering various toppings and dips for guests to customize their cookies.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Dough: You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter?

• Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.

1. How do I know when the cookies are done?

• The bottoms should be lightly golden, and the tops should feel firm to the touch.

1. Can I add more nuts?

• Absolutely! Adjust according to your preference, but keep in mind it may affect the texture.

1. What can I use instead of pecans?

• Other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds work well.

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

• Yes! They can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container or frozen.

1. Why do I need to chill the dough?

• Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and ensures a better shape during baking.

1. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

• Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from getting stale.

1. Can I make mini versions of these cookies?

• Yes, just reduce the size of the dough balls and adjust the baking time accordingly.

1. Do I need to sift the flour?

• It’s not necessary, but sifting can help eliminate any lumps and aerate the flour.

1. Can I make the dough a day in advance?
   • Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight before baking.

Conclusion

Buttery pecan snowball cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a tradition that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With their simple ingredients and delightful flavor, they are the perfect cookies to bake for the holidays or anytime you need a sweet indulgence. Whether shared with friends and family or savored alone with a warm drink, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your kitchen!

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