❄️ Snowball Cookies: Delicate, Buttery, and Melt-in-Your-Mouth Good

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9 from 1,900 fans)
📸 700+ photo shares | ☀️ Updated October 2025

There’s something truly magical about Snowball Cookies. Just one bite transports you straight to a cozy winter’s evening, wrapped in a blanket by a crackling fire. These aren’t just cookies; they’re tiny balls of pure, buttery joy, dissolving on your tongue with a delicate crumb and a delightful whisper of vanilla and nutty richness. Dusted generously in a snowy coat of powdered sugar, they’re a sight to behold and an absolute delight to taste. Perfect for holiday gatherings, a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply a sweet moment with a cup of tea, these classic treats are always a cherished favorite.

Quick Glance

• ⏱️ Prep Time: 20 minutes
• 🍽️ Servings: 3 dozen cookies
• 💥 Vibe: Buttery, Delicate, Festive

Jump Ahead

• What You’ll Need
• How to Make Snowball Cookies
• Fun Twists & Serving Ideas
• Reviews
• FAQ
• Conclusion
• Recipe Note

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these enchanting little wonders. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (or your favorite nut)

How to Make Snowball Cookies

Creating these delicate cookies is a truly delightful process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying these snowy treats in no time!

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
2. Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined, ensuring that lovely aroma is infused throughout.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
4. Gently fold in the finely chopped nuts. The dough might seem a bit crumbly, but it will come together as you press it.
5. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This makes the dough easier to handle and helps prevent spreading during baking.
6. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Roll the chilled dough into small, roughly 1-inch balls. Place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden and the cookies are set. They should not be heavily browned.
9. While the cookies are still warm (but cool enough to handle), gently roll them in a bowl of powdered sugar. The warmth helps the sugar adhere beautifully.
10. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, roll them in powdered sugar a second time for an extra thick, snowy coating.
11. Serve and enjoy the delightful magic!

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

These classic cookies are wonderful on their own, but a few simple variations can elevate them even further!

• Chocolate Dream: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate snowball, or fold in ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips with the nuts.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of finely grated lemon or orange zest into the butter mixture for a bright, refreshing flavor.
• Spice it Up: A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom mixed into the flour can add a warm, festive note, especially delightful around the holidays.
• Nut-Free Option: If allergies are a concern, simply omit the nuts. The cookies will still be wonderfully buttery and tender. You can also replace them with an equal amount of finely crushed toffee bits for a different texture and flavor.
• Coffee Companion: Serve these elegant cookies alongside a warm mug of coffee, a steaming cup of tea, or a rich hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy treat.

Reviews

Here’s what our wonderful community is saying about these delightful Snowball Cookies!

• Sarah L. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These are the absolute best! So easy to make and they literally melt in your mouth. My family devoured them in an hour. A new holiday tradition for sure!”
• Mark T. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I’ve tried many snowball cookie recipes, and this one is by far the most buttery and tender. The double roll in powdered sugar makes all the difference. Fantastic!”
• Jessica R. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect recipe! I used walnuts and added a little orange zest, and they were incredible. My friends kept asking for the recipe. Thank you!”

FAQ

Got questions about making these snowy delights? We’ve got answers!

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to a month; just thaw it in the fridge before rolling and baking.

Q: Why do I roll them in powdered sugar twice?

A: The first roll, while warm, helps the sugar melt slightly and adhere to the cookie, forming a foundational layer. The second roll, once cooled, creates that beautiful, thick, snowy white coating that is characteristic of snowball cookies and prevents it from disappearing entirely.

Q: My cookies spread too much. What went wrong?

A: This can happen if your butter was too warm, or if your dough wasn’t chilled enough. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and always chill the dough for the recommended time to ensure they hold their shape during baking.

Q: Can I use a different type of flour?

A: For best results and the classic delicate texture, all-purpose flour is recommended. While some gluten-free flour blends might work, the texture could be slightly different.

Conclusion

There you have it – the recipe for a truly enchanting batch of Snowball Cookies, ready to bring warmth and wonder to your kitchen. There’s a special kind of magic in baking, especially when it results in something so utterly delightful and comforting. Don’t be shy; embrace the joy of creating these delicate, buttery treasures. Share them with loved ones, savor them with a quiet moment, and let each powdered sugar-dusted bite remind you of the simple, sweet pleasures of homemade goodness. Happy baking, my friends!

Recipe Note

For optimal flavor and texture, ensure your butter is truly softened (room temperature but not oily) and your nuts are finely chopped to allow for a smoother, more delicate cookie crumb.