Buttery Pecan Snowballs – Easy Christmas Cookie Recipe
Buttery pecan snowballs are the ultimate holiday cookie! Made with buttery dough, crunchy pecans, and rolled in powdered sugar, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for Christmas baking, cookie exchanges, or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped
Instructions
- Cream Base: Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in vanilla extract.
- Prepare Dry Mix: Combine flour, salt, and toasted pecans in a separate bowl.
- Form Dough: Gradually add dry mix to butter mixture. Chill dough for 30 minutes if desired.
- Shape Cookies: Roll dough into small balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Sugar Coating: Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar. Cool on wire racks, then roll again for snowy finish.
Notes
- Use softened butter for smooth mixing.
- Toast pecans before adding for deeper flavor.
- Chill dough for thicker, less spread cookies.
- Roll cookies twice in powdered sugar for the classic snowy look.
- Cool on wire racks to prevent sogginess.