BUTTERY PECAN SNOWBALL COOKIES

This section includes ingredient notes and substitution options. Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

Unsalted Butter — Soften the butter to room temperature before making the cookie dough. It’s important to use real butter here (not margarine) to get that authentic butterball cookie flavor and texture.
Confectioners’ Sugar — Also called powdered sugar, you’ll use this to make the cookie dough and to roll the cookies in once they’re done baking.
Vanilla and Almond Extracts — The extract helps add flavor to the cookies. I used a combination of vanilla and almond extracts, but you can use one or the other, if you prefer.
Flour — Use all-purpose flour and measure it precisely by sweeping the top of the cup with a flat edge.
Salt — All baked goods need a little salt to balance the flavors.
Pecans — Finely chopped pecans add crunch and nutty flavor to snowball cookies. Buy them finely chopped or pulse them a few times in the food processor to get the job done.

EQUIPMENT YOU’LL NEED

Measuring cups and spoons
Cookie sheets
Parchment paper or silicone liners
Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Cooling rack
Spatula
Cookie scoop
Airtight containers for storage

HOW TO MAKE BUTTERY PECAN SNOWBALL COOKIES
This section shows you how to make the recipe with in-process photos and instructions. For the full printable recipe, see the recipe card below.

Step 1: Prepare the cookie batter. Beat to combine the butter, sugar, vanilla, and almond extract. Add the salt and slowly, with your mixer on low speed, mix in the flour. Fold in the chopped pecans.

Step 2: Roll and bake. Scoop out the dough, roll into 1-inch balls, and place the balls on prepared baking sheets at least 1 inch apart. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the bottom edges are light brown.

Tip: If the dough is difficult to work with, put it in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes or so.

Step 3: Roll in confectioners sugar. Once the cookies are cooled just enough to handle roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar and place them on a wire rack. For best results, roll them in the sugar once more after they are completely cooled.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Enjoy a couple of these nutty pecan snowball cookies with a big mug of hot chocolate! Try White Hot Chocolate or Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate instead of the packaged stuff.

STORAGE AND FREEZING