Snowball Cookies: Buttery, Powdery, and Perfect for the Holidays

Delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies rolled in powdered sugar—these classic snowballs are a winter wonder

Introduction: A Cookie That Feels Like a Snowflake

There’s something magical about snowball cookies. They’re soft, crumbly, and coated in a snowy layer of powdered sugar that makes them look like tiny winter treasures. Also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, these bite-sized delights are buttery, nutty (if you like), and perfect for holiday cookie trays, gift boxes, or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea.

This recipe is simple, timeless, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing for a cookie exchange, or just indulging in a seasonal treat, these snowball cookies are guaranteed to bring joy in every bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so irresistible:

Base Ingredients:

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened)
  Adds richness and creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Powdered sugar (¼ cup + extra for rolling)
  Sweetens the dough and gives the cookies their signature snowy coating.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups)
  Provides structure and creates a crumbly texture.
• Finely chopped nuts (½ cup, optional)
  Adds crunch and nutty flavor—walnuts, pecans, or almonds work beautifully.
• Pinch of salt
  Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Optional: Add almond extract or citrus zest for a twist.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Sifter (for powdered sugar)

Tip: Use a food processor to finely chop nuts for a uniform texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Tip: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl:

• Cream together softened butter and ¼ cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Add vanilla extract and mix to combine.

Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.

If using, stir in finely chopped nuts.

Optional: Chill the dough for 30 minutes to make shaping easier.

Step 3: Form the Cookies

Roll dough into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop.

Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart.

Tip: These cookies don’t spread much, so you can fit more per tray.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until:

• Cookies are set but not browned
• Bottoms may turn slightly golden

Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.

Tip: Don’t overbake—these cookies should stay pale and tender.

Step 5: Coat with Powdered Sugar

While still warm:

• Roll cookies in powdered sugar to coat completely.

Let cool on a wire rack.

Once cooled, dust with additional powdered sugar using a sifter for a perfect snowy finish.

Optional: Roll a second time for extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve cookies once fully cooled.

Pair with:

• Hot cocoa
• Spiced tea
• Coffee or eggnog
• A cozy blanket and a holiday movie

Yields:

• 24–30 cookies, depending on size

Presentation Tip: Arrange on a festive platter or package in cellophane bags with ribbon for gifting.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Holiday cookie trays
• Gift boxes and tins
• Afternoon tea
• Winter weddings
• Cozy nights in

Serve with:

• Peppermint bark
• Gingerbread men
• Sugar cookies
• Mulled wine or cider

Tip: Add a sprinkle of edible glitter for a magical touch.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Citrus Snowballs

Add orange or lemon zest to the dough.

Chocolate Chip

Fold in mini chocolate chips instead of nuts.

Coconut Snowballs

Add shredded coconut to the dough and roll in coconut sugar.

Nut-Free Version

Skip the nuts and add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom.

Vega Version

Use plant-based butter and skip the nuts.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Prepare dough and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Store baked cookies in airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freeze: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw and re-roll in powdered sugar before serving.

Tip: Layer cookies between parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 30)

• Calories: ~90
• Protein: ~1g
• Carbohydrates: ~9g
• Fat: ~6g
• Sugar: ~4g
• Sodium: ~20mg
• Fiber: ~0.5g

These cookies are:

• Buttery and crumbly
• Easy to make
• Perfectly portioned
• Great for gifting

Final Thoughts

These Snowball Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of winter, nostalgia, and sweet simplicity. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just indulging in a quiet moment, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy every craving.