Pecan Snowball Cookies


Soft mounds of sweetness adorned with a dusting of powdered sugar, Pecan Snowball Cookies nestle like delicate treasures, whispering tales of warmth and nostalgia. As they melt in your mouth, the crispness of pecans harmonizes with the soft embrace of buttery dough, crafting a divine moment of indulgence. Let this enchanting recipe guide you through the simple yet profound artistry of baking.

Why make this recipe
Pecan Snowball Cookies are more than just a delightful treat; they are a testament to the joys of home baking. Each bite captures the essence of celebration, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings by the fire. Their ethereal texture and rich flavor make them the perfect companion for a warm cup of tea or coffee, inviting you to pause and savor the simple pleasures of life.

How to make Pecan Snowball Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons clear vanilla
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, for coating

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees F, allowing the air to fill with anticipation. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper, creating a soft bed for your cookies.
  2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, gently whisk together the flour and cornstarch until they resemble fine sands, setting this mixture aside like delicate treasures waiting to be discovered.
  3. Take the softened butter, and, with an inviting rhythm, cream it until it becomes a pale yellow cloud. Slowly add the powdered sugar, watching as it transforms into a light, fluffy mixture that speaks of sweetness.
  4. Introduce the clear vanilla, allowing its aromatic essence to permeate the batter, and mix well to ensure harmony throughout.
  5. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture, breathing in the warm, soothing aroma as it comes together. Fold in the finely chopped pecans, each piece adding a whimsical crunch.
  6. Scoop small portions of dough into gentle balls and place them in the refrigerator for a brief interlude of 10 minutes, letting them rest as you anticipate their transformation.
  7. Bake for 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden, filling your kitchen with the intoxicating scent of nostalgia.
  8. As the cookies emerge, roll them while warm in a dusting of powdered sugar, each swirl creating a sparkling coating that promises sweetness. Allow them to cool completely, transforming your kitchen into a sanctuary filled with warmth and joy.
  9. Store these lovely cookies in an airtight container, keeping their tenderness preserved for moments of indulgence.

How to serve Pecan Snowball Cookies
Present your Pecan Snowball Cookies on a delicate plate, dusted with extra powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Pair them with warm beverages, inviting friends and family to partake in the simple joy of sharing. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture is sure to evoke smiles and contentment, creating memories that linger long after the last crumb has vanished.

How to store Pecan Snowball Cookies
To maintain their enchanting softness, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain delightful companions for several days, ready to be nibbled upon at leisure or shared with those you hold dear.

Tips to make Pecan Snowball Cookies

  • Ensure your butter is at room temperature, allowing for optimal creaming and a light texture.
  • Experiment with different types of nuts. Walnuts or almonds can offer an equally delightful spin while still preserving the classic feel.
  • For an extra flourish, consider adding a hint of aromatic spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture.

Variations
For an unexpected twist, infuse the dough with a drop of almond extract, or consider rolling the cookies in coconut instead of powdered sugar, adding a tropical cheerfulness to each bite.

FAQs
Q: Can I freeze Pecan Snowball Cookies?
A: Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Simply freeze the unbaked dough balls, and when ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: What if I don’t have cornstarch?
A: You may substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. The texture may slightly vary, but your cookies will still be delicious.

Q: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
A: Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking, and never skip the refrigeration step. This helps the cookies hold their shape during baking, resulting in that perfect snowball form.

In the enchanting world of baking, each ingredient is a brushstroke, and every cookie a work of art. As Pecan Snowball Cookies grace your table, let them remind you of the beauty found in patience and the quiet joy of creating something sweet.

Pecan Snowball Cookies

Delightful cookie balls coated in powdered sugar, filled with buttery goodness and crunchy pecans, perfect for sharing during festive occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Cookie Dough Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Can substitute with all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup butter, softened Ensure at room temperature for optimal creaming
  • 1 cup powdered sugar For the dough
  • 2.5 teaspoons clear vanilla
  • 1 cup pecans, finely chopped The key flavor component
Coating Ingredients
  • 2 cups powdered sugar For dusting the cookies

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch until combined. Set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar.
  4. Mix in the clear vanilla until well distributed.
  5. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture and fold in the finely chopped pecans.
  6. Scoop small portions of dough and roll into balls. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
Baking
  1. Bake the dough balls for 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
  2. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar for a sweet coating. Allow them to cool completely.

Notes

Store in an airtight container to preserve softness. Try adding almond extract for a twist, or substitute different nuts.