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Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
Making Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies is like wrapping your taste buds in a cozy, sweet blanket. These little delights are perfect for various occasions, and they carry with them the nostalgic essence of holiday baking. I remember the first time I made them; the smell of toasted pecans wafting through my kitchen transformed it into a warm, inviting space. These cookies are not only a crowd-pleaser—whether at holiday gatherings or simple family get-togethers—but they also seamlessly blend buttery flavor with the crunch of nuts, making every bite unforgettable.
What Makes This Recipe Special
These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are a must-try for several reasons. First, they’re incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal time. Plus, they are a perfect treat for both baking novices and seasoned chefs alike. The delicately sweet flavor and crumbly texture make them irresistible, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
The versatility of this recipe makes it a star during various occasions, from festive cookie swaps to cozy winter afternoons with a cup of tea. And let’s not forget their charming appearance—lightly dusted with powdered sugar, they resemble little snowballs, making them a festive addition to any dessert table.
“These cookies are a game changer! The buttery flavor combined with the pecans just dances on your taste buds. My family loved them, and they disappeared in no time!” – A happy baker
How to Prepare This Recipe
Ready to whip up these delicious cookies? The process is straightforward and can be done in about 30 minutes. You’ll start by creating a creamy mix of butter and sugar, then incorporate the flour and chopped pecans for that delectable crunch. Finally, form them into balls, bake, and roll them in powdered sugar for a perfect finish.
It’s incredibly rewarding to see the transformation from dough to golden cookies that are not only visually appealing but also delightful to eat!
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Gather Your Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these scrumptious cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can easily swap the pecans for walnuts or even almonds, depending on your preference. Each nut brings a different flavor profile that still complements the buttery base.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the flour, chopped pecans, and salt. Ensure everything is evenly mixed together.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, watching for the bottoms to turn lightly golden.
- Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, then roll again in powdered sugar before serving.
Best Way to Serve
These cookies shine on their own but can be paired with several delightful accompaniments. A steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate complements the buttery sweetness beautifully. For a more festive touch, serve them alongside holiday-themed desserts—imagine a plate of snowball cookies next to a rich chocolate cake or a spiced pumpkin pie.
Consider presenting the cookies in a decorative tin for gift-giving or on a plate dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant look.
Keeping Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Fresh Longer
To ensure your delightful cookies maintain their freshness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last about a week; for longer storage, consider refrigerating them. If you want to enjoy them even later, they freeze well! Just ensure they are sealed tightly in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar before serving.
Expert Advice
Here are a few tips to elevate your cookie-baking game:
- Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature; this helps achieve a fluffy texture when creaming with sugar.
- Toasting your pecans before chopping can enhance their flavor, adding an additional layer of richness. Just be careful not to over-toast them!
- If you find the dough too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
Creative Twists
While the classic pecan version is incredibly satisfying, feel free to explore other flavors. Consider adding mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise or incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal touch. You could even dip the cooled cookies in chocolate and then sprinkle them with crushed nuts for a fun twist!
Your Questions Answered
-
How long does it take to prepare?
The total time for preparation and baking is about 30-40 minutes, making these cookies a quick and enjoyable project. -
Can I substitute the butter?
While unsalted butter is recommended for the best flavor, you could use margarine as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the texture. -
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes! These cookies freeze well, making them ideal for making ahead of time for festive gatherings or just to enjoy later.
With these tips and insights, you’re ready to bake your way to cookie perfection! Enjoy the delightful experience of making Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies, a treat that will surely become a favorite in your household.
Print
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies with a buttery flavor and crunchy pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the flour, chopped pecans, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Let them cool for a few minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, then roll again in powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. They freeze well for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cookies, pecan, holiday baking, dessert
