Discover the magic of Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies! With a buttery base and crunchy pecans, these irresistible delights are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Irresistibly Crunchy Delights: Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies for Your Sweet Tooth
When it comes to classic holiday treats, pecan snowball cookies certainly make the list of must-bakes. These delightful morsels are a holiday staple, bringing a melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with a satisfying crunch. Light, sweet, and dusted in powdered sugar, they resemble a fresh fall of snow, offering a touch of nostalgia and warmth with every bite. Not just for the festive season, these cookies are perfect any time you crave a little sweetness. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and enjoy these irresistibly crunchy delights with your loved ones.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling the cookies
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions:
Prepare Your Oven and Baking Equipment:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The key is to ensure the butter is fully integrated with the sugar for a smooth, creamy consistency.Add the Vanilla:
Mix in the pure vanilla extract until well combined, continuing to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. Overmixing can cause the cookies to be dense as opposed to light and airy.Fold in the Pecans:
Using a spatula, carefully fold the finely chopped pecans into the dough until evenly distributed. The dough will be somewhat stiff, which is perfect for shaping the cookies later.Shape the Cookies:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the dough into 1-inch balls. It’s helpful to use the palms of your hands to roll the dough into compact, even spheres.
Bake:
Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, placing them about 1 inch apart. These cookies will not spread significantly, so they can be placed relatively close together. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the bottoms are just beginning to turn golden. Be cautious not to brown them too much, as this can alter the delicate texture.Cool Slightly:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. They need to set a little to prevent breaking when moving them, but should still be warm when the next step is performed.Roll in Powdered Sugar:
While the cookies are still warm, gently roll each cookie in additional powdered sugar. This first coating helps create a sweet layer that adheres nicely while warm.
- Cool Completely:
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll them again in the powdered sugar for that extra sweet, snowball effect. This double coating ensures they have a beautiful, snowy appearance perfect for serving.
Conclusion:
These buttery pecan snowball cookies are not only a feast for the taste buds but a treat for the eyes. Their soft, crumbly texture and the added crunch from the pecans make them a delightful companion to your afternoon tea or coffee. Whether enjoyed as part of a festive spread or as a sweet indulgence with your loved ones, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to pack some in festive tins to share with friends and family. Happy baking, and enjoy your irresistibly crunchy delights!