Almond snowball cookies, also known as “Mexican Wedding Cookies” or “Russian Tea Cakes,” are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter. These cookies are buttery, nutty, and coated in powdered sugar to resemble little snowballs, making them perfect for festive gatherings. With a simple mix of ingredients, these melt-in-your-mouth treats are easy to make and sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the cookies, giving them structure
- 1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a snowy finish
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch
- 1 cup Pecans, Finely Chopped – For a nutty, crunchy texture
- 1 cup of softened unsalted butter – Imparts a decadent richness and enhances moisture in the dish.
Instructions
- Heat and Prepare: Begin by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C). To ensure easy removal and promote even cooking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, 1/2 cup of the powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Slowly incorporate the flour, stirring gently until everything is just blended together.
- Incorporate the Pecans: Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Form the Cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into small balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookie bottoms turn a light golden brown while the tops stay soft and pale. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Coat in Powdered Sugar: Once the cookies are cool, roll each cookie in the remaining powdered sugar until fully coated, giving them their signature snowball look.
- Serve and Enjoy: Place these delicate, sweet cookies on a platter for serving. They’re best enjoyed with a warm drink, like tea or coffee, for a cozy holiday treat.
Conclusion
Almond snowball cookies are a festive and satisfying treat that captures the spirit of the holidays. With their buttery flavor, crunchy nuts, and powdered sugar coating, they bring a simple yet elegant touch to any gathering. Not only are they fun to make, but their light, crumbly texture and sweet finish make them irresistible. Share these delightful snowballs with family and friends, and watch them disappear from the plate!