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Snowball Cookies

Snowball Cookies
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Snowball Cookies are tender, buttery cookies coated lovingly in powdered sugar, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for cozy winter nights and festive celebrations. This easy, classic recipe is beginner-friendly and customizable, making it ideal for holiday baking or any time you crave a soft, sweet treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for GF version)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans preferred)
  • Sunflower seeds or mini chocolate chips (for nut-free variation)
  • Pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom (for spiced version)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest (for citrus variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Cream the cold unsalted butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender crumb. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually fold in the salt and flour (or gluten-free blend) until a soft dough forms. If using nuts or add-ins, gently mix them in last.
  2. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls about one inch in diameter. Space them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure even baking and to preserve their snowball shape.
  3. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft, achieving the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  4. Coat with Powdered Sugar: While still warm, carefully roll the baked cookies in powdered sugar. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust again with powdered sugar for the iconic snowy appearance and added sweetness.

Notes

  • Use cold butter to help maintain cookie shape and prevent spreading.
  • Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies; mix just until combined.
  • Chill dough for 30 minutes before shaping for better texture and less spreading.
  • Utilize fresh, fine powdered sugar for a soft and authentic snow coating.
  • For consistent cookie size and even baking, use a small cookie scoop or measuring spoon.
  • Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • Freeze tightly wrapped dough or baked cookies for up to three months; thaw before serving.
  • Reheat gently in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds to refresh softness.

Nutrition

Keywords: snowball cookies, butter cookies, powdered sugar cookies, holiday cookies, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, gluten-free cookies, nut-free cookies, Christmas cookies

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/snowball-cookies/