Go Back

Snowball Cookies

Looking for a sweet holiday treat that's easy to make? Snowball Cookies are perfect for all bakers. They have a soft white outside and a rich, buttery taste.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar plus extra for rolling
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans optional

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • At least two: one for the wet ingredients and one for the dry ingredients.
  • Electric Mixer (Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer)
  • This will help you cream the butter and sugar together more easily, but you can also mix by hand if you prefer.
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • For accurately measuring ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter.
  • Whisk
  • For whisking together the dry ingredients (flour and salt).
  • Baking Sheet
  • A large, flat baking sheet to place the cookies on while they bake.
  • Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
  • For lining your baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking.
  • Cookie Scoop or Spoon
  • To portion out the dough into uniform balls. This ensures even baking and helps with consistency.
  • Cooling Rack (Optional)
  • To allow the cookies to cool properly after baking. It helps them maintain their shape and prevents sogginess from trapped steam.
  • Fine Mesh Sifter (Optional)
  • If you want to sift the powdered sugar for a smoother coating on the cookies.
  • Large Plate or Shallow Dish
  • To roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar after baking.

Method
 

  1. Preheat the Oven:
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Mix Butter and Sugar:
  4. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step.
  5. Add Vanilla:
  6. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  7. Combine Dry Ingredients:
  8. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture into the butter mixture, stirring until well combined.
  9. Add Nuts (Optional):
  10. Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans if you’re using them. If you prefer a nut-free version, feel free to skip this step.
  11. Shape the Cookies:
  12. Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  13. Bake the Cookies:
  14. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies start to turn lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking!
  15. Cool and Coat in Powdered Sugar:
  16. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, while they’re still warm, roll them in powdered sugar until completely coated.
  17. Final Coat:
  18. Once the cookies have cooled completely, roll them in powdered sugar again for that perfect snowy finish.