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Pecan Snowball Cookies

A pile of freshly baked Pecan Snowball Cookies, generously dusted with powdered sugar.

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Buttery pecan shortbread balls rolled in powdered sugar, perfect for holiday cookie trays.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions

  1. Toast pecans: Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, until fragrant. Let cool completely.
  2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add vanilla and salt: Beat in vanilla extract and salt.
  4. Incorporate flour: Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined.
  5. Add pecans: Stir in the cooled, toasted pecans.
  6. Chill dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to roll.
  7. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. Roll cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Place on prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
  9. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be soft.
  10. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Roll in sugar: Once completely cool, roll each cookie generously in additional powdered sugar until fully coated.

Notes

  • For best flavor, toast your pecans. This brings out their nutty aroma and taste.
  • Chilling the dough is essential for easy handling and to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
  • These cookies freeze well. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Roll in powdered sugar after thawing if desired.
  • For gifting, place cooled, powdered cookies in decorative tins or bags.

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