Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth

Jump to Recipe

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are classic holiday treats that melt in your mouth! Also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, these buttery, nutty, and sugar-dusted cookies are irresistibly soft, festive, and easy to make. Their delightful texture and rich flavor make them a must-have for any holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon treat.

Why You’ll Love This Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

These cookies are not just delicious; they are the perfect combination of flavor and texture. Here are some reasons why you’ll adore them:

Irresistibly soft and buttery, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy bakers.
The subtle crunch of pecans adds a delightful contrast to the cookie’s softness.
They are versatile and can be served at any occasion, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers.
These cookies are vegetarian-friendly, catering to a wide audience.
Rolling them in powdered sugar gives them a beautiful snowy appearance, perfect for festive occasions.
They can be made ahead of time, allowing for easier holiday preparations.
Ideal for gifting, they make a wonderful treat for friends and family.

This recipe is a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday season, making it a cherished addition to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (90g) finely chopped pecans
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, for rolling

How to Make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Step 2: Beat butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Mix in vanilla extract until combined.
Step 4: Add flour and salt, mixing on low speed until a crumbly dough forms.
Step 5: Stir in finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Roll dough into 1-inch (walnut-sized) balls and place 1 inch apart on baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake 12–14 minutes, until lightly golden on the bottoms. Do not overbake.
Step 8: Let cool 5 minutes, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.
Step 9: Allow to cool fully and roll once more in powdered sugar for that snowy finish.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Do not overbake the cookies; they should remain pale and soft.
For an extra nutty flavor, toast the pecans lightly before chopping.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spicy note.

Best Ways to Serve Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can enhance their presentation and flavor by:

Pairing them with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Serving them alongside other holiday cookies for a festive platter.
Drizzling melted chocolate over the top for a decadent touch.

How to Store and Reheat Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week. If you want to prepare them in advance, these cookies freeze well. Just make sure to roll them in powdered sugar after thawing for that fresh, snowy look.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?

The secret lies in using room temperature butter and not overmixing the dough. This ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these cookies irresistible.

Can I make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it or freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to roll them in powdered sugar before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?

To avoid common pitfalls, measure your ingredients accurately and be careful not to overbake the cookies. They should be soft to the touch when you take them out of the oven.

Variations of Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies You Can Try

There are many delightful variations you can experiment with:

Substitute pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist on the classic cookie.
Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a festive touch.
For a fun flavor, try infusing the dough with almond extract instead of vanilla.

These variations will keep your holiday baking exciting and unique!

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth - Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins or Banana Split Fruit Pizza. If you’re looking for a savory option, try Hearty Beef Shepherd’s Pie.