Welcome to a world of irresistible sweetness with our Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies recipe. These delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treats are a perfect blend of buttery richness and nutty crunch, making them an all-time favorite during the holiday season or any time you’re craving a delectable treat. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of these delightful cookies in no time. Let’s dive into the delightful journey of making Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the salt and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Incorporate Flour and Pecans: Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Fold in the finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the bottoms are lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Dust with Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar until evenly coated.
- Final Touch: Dust the cookies with additional powdered sugar just before serving, if desired. Enjoy the delightful buttery pecan flavor with every bite!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Chill the Dough: For easier handling, you can chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before shaping into balls and baking.
- Nut Variations: Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Enhance Flavor: For a hint of citrus, add 1 teaspoon of finely grated lemon or orange zest to the dough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough? A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Simply shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a resealable freezer bag or container.
Q: How do I store the baked cookies? A: Store the baked Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for longer storage and thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I make these cookies without nuts? A: Yes, you can omit the nuts if you prefer. The cookies will still have a delightful buttery flavor and tender texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications:
- Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content.
- Use a powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of powdered sugar for dusting.
- Increase the amount of vanilla extract or add a splash of almond extract for added flavor without added carbs.
In conclusion, our Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies recipe is a true delight for cookie lovers everywhere. With its buttery richness, nutty crunch, and delicate sweetness, these cookies are sure to become a beloved favorite for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, shared with loved ones during the holidays, or savored as a special treat, these delightful cookies are guaranteed to bring joy to every bite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the baking begin—your taste buds will thank you
