Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies: A Melt-in-Your-Mouth Delight

There’s something magical about holiday baking. The aroma of butter and vanilla filling your kitchen, the joy of rolling dough with your hands, and the satisfaction of that first bite of a freshly baked treat—it’s an experience that brings comfort and nostalgia. If you’re craving a cookie that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies are the perfect choice. These tender, nutty, and sweet cookies, coated in powdered sugar, resemble tiny snowballs, making them a festive addition to your holiday table. Ready to bring some sweetness to your home? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies

Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies are much more than just a dessert. They’re a holiday tradition for many, often passed down through generations. Each bite delivers a rich buttery flavor, balanced by the crunch of finely chopped nuts and the sweetness of powdered sugar. These cookies are incredibly easy to make and are perfect for cookie swaps, family gatherings, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea. And the best part? They stay fresh for days, so you can enjoy them throughout the week—or give them as homemade gifts to loved ones!

Ingredients for Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies

You only need a few pantry staples to create these delightful cookies. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity
Butter (softened)	1 cup
Vanilla extract	2 teaspoons
Powdered sugar	½ cup (for dough)
All-purpose flour	2 ¼ cups
Pecans or walnuts	1 cup (finely chopped)
Powdered sugar	1 cup (for coating)

Each ingredient plays a key role in the cookie’s flavor and texture. The butter provides richness, while the finely chopped nuts add crunch and nuttiness. The powdered sugar, both in the dough and as a coating, creates a melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that makes these cookies so irresistible.

How to Make Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies

Follow this simple step-by-step guide to whip up a batch of these delicious cookies:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

2. Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, vanilla extract, and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy. This step ensures your cookies have a tender, crumbly texture.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined. Next, gently fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be firm but pliable.

4. Roll the Dough into Balls

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a small ball using your hands. Place each dough ball onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. These cookies won’t spread much, so don’t worry about crowding the sheet.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. Keep a close eye on the cookies—they should remain pale in color, with just a hint of golden brown on the bottoms.

6. Coat in Powdered Sugar

Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes, but while they’re still warm, roll each one in powdered sugar. This helps the sugar adhere to the surface. For a thicker, snowy coating, roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time once they’ve completely cooled.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your cookies to a serving plate, and enjoy them with your favorite beverage. These cookies are perfect for sharing or storing in an airtight container for later.

Tips for Perfect Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies

1. Use Softened Butter: Soft butter mixes more easily with the sugar and flour, resulting in a smooth dough. Avoid melting the butter, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.
2. Finely Chop the Nuts: Ensure your pecans or walnuts are finely chopped for an even texture. You can use a food processor to make this step easier.
3. Don’t Overbake: These cookies are meant to stay pale, so keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Overbaking can make them too dry.
4. Double-Coat the Sugar: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar twice ensures a beautiful, snowy appearance that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~120 kcal
Carbohydrates	~10g
Protein	~1g
Fat	~8g
Sugar	~5g

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Storing Cookies: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. You can also refrigerate them to extend their freshness.
• Freezing Dough: If you want to prepare the dough in advance, roll it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Baked cookies can also be frozen. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs About Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies

1. Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes! While pecans and walnuts are traditional, you can use almonds, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely. Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend for a gluten-free version.

3. Why are my cookies too crumbly?

If your cookies are falling apart, it may be due to a lack of moisture in the dough. Make sure the butter is properly softened and evenly mixed.

4. Can I add flavors like cinnamon or almond extract?

Of course! A pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract can enhance the flavor of these cookies.

5. Do I have to coat them in powdered sugar?

While the powdered sugar is a key part of the recipe, you can skip it if you prefer a less sweet cookie. Alternatively, you can try rolling them in finely chopped nuts or cocoa powder.

6. Can I make smaller or larger cookies?

Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller cookies may need only 10–12 minutes, while larger ones might take 15–18 minutes.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies are not just for the holidays—they’re versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of year. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a homemade gift, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies never disappoint. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and nutty flavor make them unforgettable.

Time to Bake!

Are you ready to create these delightful cookies? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and experience the joy of baking Buttery Almond Snowball Cookies. They’re quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious—a perfect way to add a little sweetness to your day. So put on your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic begin!

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