Snowballs Recipe

Butter: Provides the rich, creamy base for the cookies.

Powdered sugar: Used to sweeten the dough and coat the cookies for a snowy finish.

Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the cookies.

All-purpose flour: The main structure for the dough.

Pecans or Walnuts: Chopped nuts that add texture and flavor to the cookies.

When creaming together the butter and powdered sugar, ensure the butter is softened but not melted. This will help achieve a light and fluffy texture, which is crucial for the dough consistency. Additionally, toasting the pecans or walnuts before chopping can enhance their flavor, adding a deeper, richer taste to your snowballs.

• softened butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can provide a similar texture and moisture content.

• softened butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil offers a dairy-free alternative and adds a slight coconut flavor.

• powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Blend granulated sugar in a blender to create a powdered consistency.

• powdered sugar - Substitute with stevia powder: For a low-calorie option, use stevia powder, adjusting the quantity to taste.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavor.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour offers more fiber and nutrients, though it may slightly alter the texture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: For a gluten-free option, use a blend designed to mimic the properties of all-purpose flour.

• pecans - Substitute with almonds: Almonds provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

• pecans - Substitute with sunflower seeds: For a nut-free option, sunflower seeds offer a similar texture.

• To keep your snowballs fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to a week, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor.
• If you want to extend their shelf life, place the cookies in an airtight container and refrigerate them. This will keep them fresh for up to two weeks. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the snowballs. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature. If you prefer, you can also warm them up in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes to bring back their freshly baked taste.
• To prevent the powdered sugar coating from becoming sticky or absorbing moisture, it's best to roll the snowballs in the sugar just before serving. This ensures they look as good as they taste.
• If you plan to gift these delightful cookies, consider packaging them in decorative tins or boxes lined with parchment paper. This not only keeps them fresh but also adds a charming touch to your homemade gift.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the snowballs on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain their delicate texture.

• If you're in a hurry, use a microwave. Place the snowballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious, as microwaving too long can make them too soft.

• For a quick stovetop method, use a double boiler. Place the snowballs in the top part of the double boiler and heat over simmering water for a few minutes. This gentle heat will warm them without making them soggy.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the snowballs in the basket and heat for 3-4 minutes. This method keeps them crispy on the outside while warming them through.

• For a more traditional approach, use a toaster oven. Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and place the snowballs on a baking tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don't overheat.

• Oven: Used to bake the cookies at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ingredients like butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and flour.

• Electric mixer: Helps in creaming together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the ingredients such as butter, powdered sugar, and flour.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure small quantities like the vanilla extract.

• Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

• Baking sheet: The surface on which the dough balls are placed for baking.

• Parchment paper: Optional, but can be used to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup.

• Cooling rack: Allows the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar.

• Sifter: Helps in evenly coating the cookies with powdered sugar.

• Cookie scoop: Optional, but can be used to ensure uniform-sized dough balls.

• Knife: Used for chopping the pecans or walnuts.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the nuts.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and nuts before starting to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop pecans or walnuts with a food processor instead of by hand.

Batch baking: Roll all the dough balls at once and place them on multiple baking sheets to bake in one go.

Cooling rack: Transfer cookies to a cooling rack immediately to cool faster and save time for the second powdered sugar coating.

Double batch: Make a double batch of dough and freeze half for future use, cutting prep time in half for the next bake.