When it comes to holiday baking, few recipes are as iconic and beloved as Snowball Cookies. These melt-in-your-mouth treats, rolled in powdered sugar until they resemble tiny snowballs, are a staple at Christmas gatherings, holiday cookie swaps, and family traditions. Known by many names—Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Butterballs—this timeless cookie recipe has captured hearts worldwide.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about Snowball Cookies: their history, detailed recipe, step-by-step instructions, baking tips, variations, nutritional value, and creative ways to serve them. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking for a festive recipe, this article will ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.
Ingredients for Snowball Cookies
To make the most authentic and delicious Snowball Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted for best results)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds are traditional)
Optional add-ins for variations:
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (for almond lovers)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (for chocolate snowball cookies)
- Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (for holiday spice)
Kitchen Tools Needed
You don’t need fancy equipment to make Snowball Cookies, but here’s what will help:
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
- Fine-mesh sieve (for dusting powdered sugar)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures your cookies will have that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Add Flavoring
Mix in vanilla extract (and almond extract if using). Blend well.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture. Stir until combined, then fold in the finely chopped nuts. The dough will be slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Do not overbake—these cookies should remain pale on top.
Step 7: Roll in Powdered Sugar
Allow cookies to cool slightly (about 5 minutes), then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Place on a cooling rack. Once fully cooled, roll again in powdered sugar for the perfect snowy coating.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Butter – Soft butter ensures easy mixing and a tender dough.
- Don’t Skip the Double Roll – The first sugar coating sticks better while warm, the second ensures full coverage.
- Finely Chop Nuts – Large chunks can make the cookies crumble. Use a food processor for even results.
- Avoid Overbaking – Pale cookies are perfect. Overbaking dries them out.
- Make Ahead – The dough can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated.
- Freeze Friendly – Both baked cookies and unbaked dough balls freeze well for up to 3 months.
Variations of Snowball Cookies
Snowball Cookies are versatile! Try these fun variations:
- Chocolate Snowballs: Add cocoa powder to the dough and mini chocolate chips.
- Coconut Snowballs: Roll cookies in shredded coconut along with powdered sugar.
- Spiced Snowballs: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm holiday twist.
- Gluten-Free Snowballs: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Snowballs: Replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
History of Snowball Cookies
Snowball Cookies have roots in many cultures. They’re often called:
- Russian Tea Cakes in Eastern Europe
- Mexican Wedding Cookies in Latin America
- Butterballs in North America
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx.)
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Protein: 1 g
These values may vary depending on the nuts and sugar used.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Serve in a festive tin lined with parchment paper for a holiday gift.
- Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea at winter gatherings.
- Create a holiday cookie platter with gingerbread, peppermint bark, and snowball cookies for variety.
- Use them as edible ornaments on a Christmas dessert table.
Why You’ll Love Snowball Cookies
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients, no complicated steps.
- Festive and beautiful – Their powdered sugar coating looks like fresh snow.
- Crowd-pleasing – Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Timeless tradition – Passed down through generations worldwide.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a classic holiday cookie that’s simple, elegant, and absolutely delicious, Snowball Cookies are the perfect choice. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture, nutty flavor, and snowy sugar finish, they embody the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
Whether you call them Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or simply Snowballs, this timeless recipe is one that every baker should master. Try them once, and you’ll see why they’ve been a festive favorite for generations.
