These Melt-In-Your-Mouth Pecan Snowball Cookies are the perfect blend of buttery richness and nutty goodness. Made with finely chopped pecans and rolled in powdered sugar, these delicate cookies are a classic holiday treat that will melt in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon, these cookies offer the ideal balance of sweet and savory in a bite-sized delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pecan Snowball Cookies are the epitome of comfort food. The buttery dough combined with the crunch of pecans creates a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the snowy coating of powdered sugar adds an extra layer of sweetness. They’re easy to make, and their delicate nature makes them perfect for any occasion, especially holiday gatherings. With each bite, you get a rich, nutty flavor paired with the sweetness of the powdered sugar, making them a timeless treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans
1/4 tsp salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt until combined into a dough.
Gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm.
Once fully cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 30 cookies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 16 minutes
Total time: 31 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: While pecans are traditional, you can try substituting them with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
Flavor Twist: Add a little cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced variation.
Chocolate Drizzle: After rolling the cookies in powdered sugar, drizzle them with melted chocolate for an extra indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store your Pecan Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh. If you’ve frozen them, let them thaw at room temperature, and then give them another roll in powdered sugar before serving for that fresh, snowy appearance.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter for this recipe?

It’s best to use unsalted butter, as the salt content in salted butter could affect the flavor and texture of the cookies.

2. Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews can be substituted for pecans if you prefer or if pecans are unavailable.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking. This can help the flavors develop and makes for easy prep in advance.

4. Can I freeze these cookies after baking?

Yes, these cookies freeze well. After baking and cooling, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

5. What’s the best way to roll the cookies in powdered sugar?

Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm to help the sugar adhere. After they cool, roll them again for a perfectly snowy finish.

6. Can I add more sugar to the dough?

While this recipe calls for just a small amount of sugar in the dough, you can increase it slightly if you prefer a sweeter cookie, but be careful not to alter the texture too much.

7. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.

8. Can I make these cookies without pecans?

Yes, you can omit the pecans entirely for a plain version or substitute them with other ingredients like chocolate chips for a different twist.

9. Can I freeze the dough instead of baking it?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer the frozen dough balls to an airtight container or bag. When ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

10. Can I use brown sugar instead of powdered sugar for rolling?

Powdered sugar is best for achieving the signature snowball look and texture. Brown sugar would add moisture and alter the cookie’s appearance and texture.

Conclusion

These Melt-In-Your-Mouth Pecan Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the rich, buttery dough with the crunch of pecans and the sweetness of powdered sugar. Whether you’re making them for the holidays or simply craving a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies will always be a crowd-pleaser. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and snowy finish, they’re bound to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire!