Introduction:
Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These buttery, nutty cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, giving them a charming, snowball-like appearance. They are simple to make, melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and add a festive touch to holiday gatherings or any sweet moment.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (120g) finely chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for extra flavor
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit for variation
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Vanilla:
- Mix in the vanilla extract (and almond extract, if using).
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Add Nuts:
- Fold in the finely chopped nuts (and chocolate chips or dried fruit, if using).
7. Form Cookies:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
8. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops of the cookies should remain pale.
9. Roll in Sugar:
- Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While they are still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar until completely coated. Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, roll them in powdered sugar again for a final coat.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Finely chop the nuts to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
- Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm for the best adherence.
Nutritional Estimate:
(Per Serving, based on 24 cookies)
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 1g
Recommendation:
Snowball Cookies are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, afternoon tea, or as a sweet treat anytime. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage. These cookies also make lovely gifts when packaged in decorative tins or boxes.
Enjoy your delightful and festive Snowball Cookies!
- Zucchini and Tuna Bake
- Zucchini Halves Stuffed with Tomato, Cheese, and Herbs
- Simple Blender Coconut Cake
- Bread Rolls with Sesame Seeds
- Lemon Meringue Pie
- California Spaghetti Salad
- Kentucky Butter Cake
- Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes
- Cheeseburger and Fries Casserole
- Muffuletta Sliders
- Chinese Beef and Onion Stir Fry
- Orange Creamsicle Freezer Pie
- Pineapple Lemonade Punch
- Classic Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
- Delicious Breakfast Bread
- Strawberry Cheesecake
- Soft Butter Bread
- Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole
- Best Caprese Pasta Salad
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake
- Fluffy Doughnuts for Beginners
- Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs
- Steak and Onion
- Easy Strawberry Cake Roll
- Apricot Cake
- Keto Cream Cheese Chocolate Pound Cake