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Classic Pecan Snowball Cookies

A stack of freshly baked Snowball cookies heavily coated in powdered sugar, resting on a white plate.

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These buttery, nutty cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread rounds generously coated in powdered sugar.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for rolling
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Stir in the finely chopped nuts by hand.
  5. Scoop rounded teaspoons of dough and roll them into uniform balls. Place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
  7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Once completely cool, place a generous amount of powdered sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each cookie thoroughly in the sugar until fully coated.
  9. For a thicker coating, roll the cookies a second time in fresh powdered sugar after the first coating has set slightly.

Notes

  • Use finely chopped nuts for the best melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling can help prevent spreading.
  • If you are looking for alternatives to traditional baking, consider how meal planning can support your dietary goals.
  • For a richer flavor, you can lightly toast the nuts before chopping and adding them to the dough.

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