There’s something magical about snowball cookies. Imagine biting into a delicate, buttery treat that crumbles in your mouth, releasing a sweet cloud of powdered sugar with every bite. These delightful confections are not just tasty; they’re like little edible winter wonders, perfect for cozy evenings by the fire or festive gatherings where laughter fills the air.
I still remember the first time I made snowball cookies. It was during a holiday baking spree with my grandmother, who insisted on calling them “Russian tea cakes” even though we lived in the heart of suburbia. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was enough to make anyone swoon, and let me tell you, these cookies became an instant family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Snowball cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute treats
- Their melt-in-your-mouth texture will have everyone asking for seconds
- Dusted with powdered sugar, they look as good as they taste
- Versatile enough for any occasion, from holidays to casual get-togethers
Every time I bake snowball cookies, my friends and family light up with joy. They can’t get enough of those delightful bites!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Powdered Sugar: Essential for sweetness and that iconic snowy coating on your cookies.
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All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of these cookies; it gives them structure without being too heavy.
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Chopped Nuts (Walnuts or Pecans): Adds a delightful crunch; roast them lightly for extra flavor.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla elevates the overall taste and aroma of the cookies.
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Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors without making them salty.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking from the get-go.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. You want it to look like whipped clouds.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of chopped nuts, and a pinch of salt. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix or you’ll lose that tender texture.
Shape Into Balls: Roll tablespoons of dough into small balls—about 1 inch in diameter works best. Place them on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, giving them some space to expand.
Bake Until Golden : Pop these beauties into your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until they’re lightly golden on the bottom but still pale on top—no one wants burnt snowballs!
Dust with Powdered Sugar: Let the cookies cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar while still warm. This is where they transform into their snowy glory!
And there you have it—your very own batch of snowball cookies! Each bite is a reminder that simple ingredients can create extraordinary experiences. Enjoy sharing these festive treats at parties or keeping them all to yourself… no judgment here!
You Must Know
- These delightful snowball cookies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture
- Their buttery flavor melts in your mouth, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion
- The snowy powdered sugar dusting adds a festive touch, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar, then gradually add flour and nuts for a smooth dough. Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring perfectly round cookies.

Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out nuts for chocolate chips or using almond extract instead of vanilla to elevate flavors. Dipping half of each cookie in chocolate adds a decadent twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap; they keep well for up to three months.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using room temperature butter ensures proper creaming with sugar, creating fluffy cookies
- Be careful not to overbake; they should remain pale and soft inside
- Always coat in powdered sugar while warm for best adherence
Snowball cookies hold a special place in my heart as they remind me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and sweet aromas wafted from the kitchen, bringing everyone together.

FAQ
What are snowball cookies?
Snowball cookies are buttery, nutty treats rolled in powdered sugar, resembling little snowballs.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for delicious results.
How should I store leftover snowball cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer freshness.
Snowball Cookies
Indulge in the magic of snowball cookies, a delightful treat that melts in your mouth. These buttery confections are rolled in powdered sugar, creating a snowy finish that’s perfect for any festive occasion. With their tender texture and nutty crunch, snowball cookies are sure to bring joy to gatherings or cozy nights at home. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re a must-have addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the flour, nuts, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until just combined.
- Roll tablespoons of dough into balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden on the bottom but still pale on top.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar while warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (15g)
- Calories: 77
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 6mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg




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