Best Snowball Cookies
The earliest known recipes for similar cookies appear in cookbooks from the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in Europe. The ingredients are simple yet effective, typically combining flour, butter, nuts, and sugar. This combination creates a tender morsel that melts in the mouth, hence the affectionate name “snowball.” The use of nuts—commonly pecans or walnuts—has regional variations, while the powdered sugar coating mimics the look of freshly fallen snow, linking the cookies to the winter season.
The Perfect Blend
The secret to achieving the best snowball cookies lies in the careful selection and harmonious combination of its essential ingredients. At the heart of these delightful treats is a rich and creamy butter, which imparts a beautiful depth of flavor and contributes to the melt-in-your-mouth texture that snowball cookies are renowned for. The use of unsalted butter is highly recommended, as it allows for better control of the overall saltiness while enhancing the cookies’ sweet characteristics.
Another crucial ingredient is powdered sugar, which not only sweetens the mixture but also lends a delicate texture that complements the buttery base. This fine sugar dissolves seamlessly into the dough, preventing any grainy texture that granulated sugar might introduce. It is this powdered sugar that will later adorn the finished snowball cookies, creating that signature snowy appearance that they are famous for.
Step-by-Step to Cookie Perfection
Creating the best snowball cookies begins with a sense of anticipation and joy, drawing you into the delightful world of baking. To start, gather your ingredients: unsalted butter, confectioners’ sugar, pure vanilla extract, flour, and finely chopped nuts, preferably pecans or walnuts. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for the magic that’s about to unfold.
Begin by softening the butter in a mixing bowl, allowing its creamy texture to form. As you add confectioners’ sugar, envision the sweet fluffiness it brings, merging into a light, airy mixture. Whisk in the vanilla extract, an aromatic touch that will envelop your kitchen in warmth. It is essential to blend these elements thoroughly, as they serve as the foundation for your snowball cookies.
Enjoying Your Snowball Cookies to the Fullest
To fully appreciate the delightful experience that best snowball cookies offer, serving and storing them correctly is essential. These buttery confections, often dusted with powdered sugar, not only provide delicious bites but can also serve as beautiful presentations for various occasions. When planning to serve your snowball cookies, consider arranging them on a decorative platter or cake stand, garnished with fresh mint leaves or seasonal fruits for an added visual appeal. This approach can elevate their presentation, making them a stunning centerpiece for festivities or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup very finely chopped pecans
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar, or more as needed
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Beat butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer in a large bowl until smooth.
- Gradually mix in flour, pecans, and salt until completely incorporated.
- Roll dough into walnut-sized balls and place 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven until bottoms are light golden brown but tops are still pale, 12 to 15 minutes. (Try not to let cookies get too brown: it’s better to undercook them than to overcook them.)
- Remove cookies from the oven and let sit on the baking sheets briefly before removing to wire racks.
- Place 1/3 cup powdered sugar in a shallow bowl; roll hot cookies in sugar to coat, then return to the wire racks to cool.
- Once cooled, roll cookies in the powdered sugar once more.
