Snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, are the epitome of sweet indulgence in the world of cookies. These delectable treats are a timeless classic, beloved for their melt-in-your-mouth texture, nutty flavor, and the charming resemblance to snow-covered mountains.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, embark on your baking journey by creaming together the softened butter and powdered sugar. This crucial step involves whipping the two ingredients until they transform into a light and fluffy mixture, which might take around 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Vanilla Extract:
- Next, add the enchanting aroma of vanilla to your dough. Mix in the teaspoon of vanilla extract until it’s wonderfully incorporated into the butter-sugar blend.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt, preparing the dry ingredients that will give structure to your cookies.
5. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually introduce the dry flour mixture into the butter-sugar mixture, ensuring thorough mixing until a soft, pliable dough takes form.
6. Add Chopped Nuts:
- Now, it’s time to add the magic of nuts. Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts, infusing your cookies with delightful nuttiness and a satisfying crunch.
7. Shape the Dough:
- With your dough ready, take small portions and roll them into adorable 1-inch balls. As you do, arrange them on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving just enough space between each, like a field of snow-covered mounds.
8. Bake:
- Slide your tray into the preheated oven and let the cookies bake for approximately 12-15 minutes. Keep a watchful eye as they should just begin to turn golden at the bottom. Overbaking would be a snowy misfortune, so be cautious.
9. Cool Slightly:
- Upon emerging from the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes until they firm up slightly but remain warm to the touch.
10. Roll in Powdered Sugar:
– This is the moment of transformation. While still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar, coating them in a delicate layer that evokes the image of freshly fallen snow.
11. Cool Completely:
– Let your snowball cookies cool completely on a wire rack. This step ensures that the powdered sugar adheres beautifully, creating a snowy exterior.
12. Second Coating of Powdered Sugar (Optional):
– For an extra dose of sweetness and snowiness, you can opt to give your cookies a second coating of powdered sugar once they have cooled completely.
13. Serve:
– Your sweet indulgence, Snowball Cookies, are now ready to grace your taste buds with their enchanting flavors. Whether paired with a warm cup of tea, a steaming mug of coffee, or simply savored on their own, these cookies promise to transport you to a winter wonderland of delight.
Note: Handle these delicate, crumbly delights with care when rolling them in powdered sugar. They make a splendid addition to your holiday baking repertoire or any time you crave a treat that’s both elegant and utterly irresistible.