Snowball Cookies
Indulge in the delightful taste of snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies. These buttery, nutty treats coated in powdered sugar are a holiday favorite, bringing warmth and joy to any gathering. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a hint of vanilla, they are simple to make and even more enjoyable to share with loved ones.
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 120 calories, 8g fat, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g protein. This is based on a standard serving size of one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined.
5. Fold in the chopped nuts to the dough.
6. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
9. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar until fully coated.
10. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the nuts with seeds for a nut-free version, or use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option. Adding chocolate chips can also enhance the flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Snowball cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They also make a delightful addition to cookie platters during holiday gatherings, complementing other treats like gingerbread and fudge.
Storage and Reheating
Store snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can make cookies tough.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
- Using cold butter instead of softened can prevent proper creaming.
- Baking at too high a temperature may result in burnt bottoms.
- Skipping the cooling step before dusting with sugar can cause it to melt.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for easier handling.
- Experiment with different nuts for unique flavors.
- Dust cookies with powdered sugar twice for a thicker coating.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform size.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Butter provides the best taste and richness.
How long do snowball cookies last?
When stored properly, they can last up to a week at room temperature or three months in the freezer, maintaining their deliciousness.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has a similar texture to regular flour.
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Pecans and walnuts are traditional choices, but you can also try almonds or hazelnuts for a different twist.
Are snowball cookies suitable for vegans?
To make them vegan, use vegan butter and substitute an egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce for binding.
Conclusion
Snowball cookies are a delightful treat that brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Their simple ingredients and easy preparation make them a must-try for both novice and experienced bakers. Enjoy these delightful cookies with friends and family, and create lasting memories with every bite.
Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts to the dough.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
- Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.