Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

Introduction

These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar. Popular during the holidays, they’re also known as Italian Wedding Cookies, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Russian Tea Cakes. With their rich butter flavor and finely chopped pecans, these classic cookies are simple, elegant, and irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for coating)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture.
5. Fold in the finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
6. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into small balls.
7. Place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 14–16 minutes, until set but not browned.
9. Let cookies cool slightly, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.
10. Once completely cool, roll again in powdered sugar for a thick, snowy coating.

Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies

• Finely chop the pecans so the cookies hold together well
• Do not overbake—cookies should remain pale
• Rolling twice in powdered sugar gives the best classic look
• Chill dough for 15 minutes if it feels too soft

FAQs

Are snowball cookies the same as Italian wedding cookies?
Yes, they are the same cookie with different regional names.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely. Walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes.

Why are my snowball cookies crumbly?
Too much flour or overbaking can cause dryness. Measure flour correctly.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, they store well and are perfect for holiday baking.

Do these cookies contain eggs?
No, traditional snowball cookies are egg-free.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.