Name: Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490275H19M3S
Total time: PT-490275H19M3S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar); ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup pecans (or walnuts), finely chopped; 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for holidays and special occasions. These cookies combine a rich, nutty flavor with a delicate texture, all wrapped in a snowy coating of powdered sugar. They’re sure to become a festive favorite in your home.

A stack of four soft, round cookies with a light golden brown color sitting on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has a dusting of white powdered sugar on top, giving a slightly powdery texture. Small pieces of chopped nuts, light brown and slightly rough in texture, are scattered on the top of the upper cookie. The cookies look soft and crumbly with a slight dome shape. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup pecans (or walnuts), finely chopped
1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually add salt, vanilla extract, and flour. Mix until just combined. Stir in the finely chopped pecans by hand to avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Use a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion dough, then roll into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender.
Step 6: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm, roll gently in powdered sugar, using a fork to lift them and shake off excess sugar.
Step 7: Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll cookies in powdered sugar again for a thicker, even coating.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.
Finely chop pecans or walnuts for even texture and to prevent cracking.
For a festive twist, add a teaspoon of almond extract or citrus zest to the dough.
Use a 1-tablespoon scoop to ensure cookies bake evenly and stay uniform in size.
Do not overbake; cookies should remain pale with lightly golden bottoms.

Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To prevent the powdered sugar from clumping, place a sheet of wax paper between layers. For longer storage, freeze fully baked cookies in an airtight container with layers separated by wax paper for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar before serving. Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes if desired.

How to Serve

A close-up of a pile of three soft-looking cookies stacked unevenly on a white background with a white marbled texture. Each cookie has a light golden-brown base with a dusting of white powdered sugar evenly covering the top. Small pieces of chopped nuts in light brown shades are scattered on the very top of each cookie. The texture of the cookies shows a slightly crumbly, tender surface with a few cracks. The lighting is soft, highlighting the powder sugar and nuts. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Yes, walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts can be used as substitutes. Just make sure to chop them finely for an even texture and to avoid cracking during baking.

Why do my cookies crack when baking?

Cracking usually happens due to large nut pieces or uneven shaping of dough balls. Chop nuts finely and roll dough into smooth, uniform balls to prevent this.