Every time I make these scrumptious Snowball Cookies, I can’t help but travel back in time to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. The snowy white confectioners’ sugar dusting on these delicate cookies immediately brings a smile to my face, reminding me of the holiday seasons we spent together. The aroma would waft through the air, a sweet invitation calling my family to gather around the table, eager to share in her delightful creations. It’s funny how a simple cookie can hold so many memories, isn’t it?
When I share these Snowball Cookies with my own family now, I see the same spark of joy in their eyes. Trust me, you’re going to love how simple yet divine these little treats are! They’re perfect for a holiday gathering or just a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea. I promise that once you try making these at home, you’ll cherish them just as much as I do. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this sweet adventure together!
How to Make Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
Let me lay out the essentials you’ll need for these delightful Snowball Cookies. I find that having everything prepped makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a handy table for you:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup (softened) |
| Powdered Sugar | 1/2 cup (plus more for dusting) |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Chopped Nuts | 1 cup (walnuts or pecans are my favorites) |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
This simple ingredient list is what makes these cookies so wonderful. I love using walnuts for a nice, rich flavor, but if you’re not a fan of nuts or have allergies to consider, feel free to leave them out entirely!
Cooking Steps
Let’s dive into the fun part: making the cookies! You’ll see how easy it is to mix everything together. Let’s go through this step-by-step.
1. Preheat Your Oven
First things first, make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F. Trust me, this is crucial for getting those cookies to bake perfectly! A hot oven ensures they’ll be soft and light.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add your softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream these two together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. I love the sweet smell that starts to fill my kitchen at this stage!
3. Add Vanilla
Now, let’s enhance the flavors. Add in one teaspoon of vanilla extract to your creamed butter and sugar mixture. This adds a lovely warmth to your cookies. Just give it a quick mix until it’s combined.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, chopped nuts, and salt. This helps to distribute the salt and nuts evenly throughout the cookie dough.
5. Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. I find it helpful to mix this in three parts, so you don’t end up with a cloud of flour in your face! Mix until everything is just combined. Don’t overdo it—overmixing could make your cookies tough, and we want them to be tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
6. Shape the Cookies
Now comes the fun part! Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Place them on ungreased baking sheets with a little space in between each one. I usually make about 24 cookies from this recipe.
7. Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops are still pale. This ensures the insides stay soft.
8. Cool and Dust
Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes. After they’re cool enough to handle, roll each cookie in the remaining powdered sugar. This is where the magic happens! They truly look like little snowballs!
9. Let Them Cool Completely
Place the dusted cookies on a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the powdered sugar to set nicely and gives them that perfect snowy appearance.
Why I Love Making This Dish
These Snowball Cookies hold a special place in my heart, not just for their delicious flavor but for the memories they bring back. The act of baking them feels almost therapeutic to me. There’s something wonderful about gathering the ingredients, mixing and rolling the dough, and filling my kitchen with that warm, buttery aroma. Every bite takes me back to those precious moments spent with my grandma, and I hope that you can create new memories with your loved ones as you bake these cookies.
What You’ll Need
You’ll need just a few simple tools to make this recipe:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Wire rack for cooling
Having these tools handy will make the baking process easier, and you won’t find yourself scrambling for something at the last minute!
Tips for Perfect Results
Here are a few personal tricks I’ve learned over the years that can help make these cookies even better:
Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. It should be pliable enough to mix easily but firm enough to hold its shape.
Nut Customization: If you adore coconut, you can substitute some or all of the nuts for shredded coconut for a tropical twist!
Storage: These cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. But let’s be honest, they seldom last that long in my house!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
Snowball Cookies are delightful on their own but can also be beautifully paired. I love serving them with a hot cup of coffee or a cozy herbal tea for a wonderful afternoon treat. You could even sprinkle some additional powdered sugar over your festive holiday table for that extra touch of cheer.
Leftovers
If you happen to have some cookies left (which is a rare occasion!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll taste just as good the next day, but if you want an extra special treat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up. Honestly, the smell alone will make your home feel like a cozy bakery!
FAQ Section
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for a bit.
Can I make these cookies without nuts?
Sure thing! If nut allergies are a concern or you just prefer them nut-free, simply leave out the nuts. They’ll still be delicious!
What can I use instead of powdered sugar?
If you’re out of powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a food processor for a minute or so until fine.
Conclusion
Baking these Snowball Cookies has become a cherished tradition for me, and I can’t wait for you to try them. I truly believe that sharing food brings people closer together, and these cookies are the perfect way to do that. They are easy to make, delightful to eat, and a joy to share with family and friends. As you bite into one, you’ll taste the love and warmth that went into making them. I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! So, roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients ready, and prepare for the biggest smiles around your table. Happy baking!