Introduction

Pecan Snowball Cookies are a timeless holiday classic that instantly brings warmth, nostalgia, and comfort to any cookie platter. These small, round cookies are rich with buttery flavor, packed with finely chopped pecans, and generously coated in powdered sugar to resemble little snowballs. One bite is all it takes to understand why they’ve remained a beloved tradition for generations.

Often known by other names such as Russian Tea Cakes or Pecan Butterballs, snowball cookies are famous for their tender, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. There’s no frosting, no decoration required—just simple ingredients working together to create something truly special. The pecans add a subtle crunch and nutty depth, while the powdered sugar coating provides sweetness without heaviness.

Pecan Snowball Cookies are especially popular during Christmas, but they’re wonderful year-round for weddings, showers, tea parties, and gift boxes. They store well, travel beautifully, and taste even better the next day, making them ideal for make-ahead baking.

This detailed guide will walk you through every step of making perfect Pecan Snowball Cookies, along with variations, tips, and serving ideas to help you achieve flawless, bakery-quality results every time.

Ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans

For Coating

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, for rolling

Preparation

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth, light, and creamy. This creates the base for the soft, tender texture.

Step 2: Add Vanilla

Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The vanilla enhances the buttery flavor without overpowering the pecans.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 12–14 minutes, until cookies are set but still pale. Do not allow browning.

Step 8: First Sugar Coating

Allow cookies to cool for about 5 minutes, then gently roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.

Step 9: Second Sugar Coating

Once cookies are completely cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for a thick, snowy finish.

Variation

🌰 1. Walnut Snowball Cookies

Substitute walnuts for pecans.

🍫 2. Chocolate Pecan Snowballs

Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top.

🍊 3. Orange Pecan Snowballs

Add orange zest to the dough for citrus brightness.

🥥 4. Coconut Snowball Cookies

Mix shredded coconut into the dough or coating.

🌿 5. Spiced Snowballs

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

COOKING Note :

• Do not overbake—snowball cookies should stay pale.
• Finely chop pecans for even texture.
• Rolling twice in powdered sugar ensures the classic snowy look.
• Handle cookies gently—they are delicate.

Serving Suggestions :

• Serve on holiday cookie platters.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
• Package in tins or gift boxes.
• Serve at weddings or showers.
• Add to Christmas dessert tables.

Tips :

• Use room-temperature butter for smooth dough.
• Chill dough if it feels too soft.
• Roll cookies gently to avoid cracking.
• Store in a single layer when possible.
• Dust with fresh powdered sugar before serving.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

14 minutes

Total Time:

29 minutes (plus chilling)

Nutritional Information :

(Approximate per cookie)
Calories: ~150
Protein: ~2 g
Sodium: ~45 mg

FAQs

1. Why are my snowball cookies crumbly?

They’re naturally tender, but overbaking can make them too crumbly.

2. Can I freeze pecan snowball cookies?

Yes, freeze uncoated cookies and roll in sugar after thawing.

3. Do I have to roll them twice in sugar?

Yes, it gives the best flavor and snowy appearance.

4. Can I use salted butter?

Unsalted butter is recommended for better control of flavor.

5. How long do they stay fresh?

Stored airtight, they stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Conclusion

Pecan Snowball Cookies are a classic for a reason—simple, elegant, and irresistibly delicious. With their buttery crumb, nutty pecan flavor, and snowy powdered sugar coating, they capture the essence of holiday baking in every bite. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or discovering them for the first time, these cookies are guaranteed to bring comfort, joy, and timeless charm to your table.

Print