Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies
Soft, buttery cookies loaded with toasted pecans and coated in powdered sugar. These classic holiday treats, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies, are melt-in-your-mouth delicious and perfect for any festive occasion.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup 120g all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup 30g powdered sugar (for dough)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Add-ins:
- 3/4 cup 90g pecans, finely chopped and toasted
Coating:
- 1 cup 120g powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
Prepare the Pecans:
- Lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant. Let them cool completely before chopping finely.
Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the sifted flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped toasted pecans until evenly distributed.
Chill the Dough:
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Shape the Cookies:
- Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form 1-inch balls of dough and place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking.
Coat the Cookies:
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. While still warm, roll them in powdered sugar.
- Once completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze them for up to three months.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a touch of almond or orange extract.
- If dough is too crumbly, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk until it holds together.
- These cookies make a perfect holiday gift—pack them in festive tins or boxes!
Nutrition (per cookie):
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 1g