Irresistibly Soft and Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies You Need to Try

There’s a special kind of magic that happens in my kitchen during the holidays, when the scent of warm spices mingles with the soft hum of laughter and the clatter of baking trays. One of my most cherished recipes, passed down from Nonna Rosa and given my own twist, is these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies. They’re little bites of buttery heaven, dusted with powdered sugar, that instantly transport me back to those cozy afternoons in Monterey, where my daughters Olivia and Isabella eagerly helped roll dough and sneak pecans from the bowl. If you’re looking for a cookie that feels like a warm hug and honors tradition, you’ve found it here.

Why You’ll Love This Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

What makes these Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies so irresistible? For starters, the rich, tender crumb that melts in your mouth is thanks to a generous amount of butter, which was Nonna Rosa’s secret to every great cookie she baked. The pecans add a subtle crunch and a toasty depth that complements the sweetness perfectly. Growing up, my mother Elena loved improvising with ingredients she had on hand, and these cookies are no exception—they’re simple, forgiving, and perfect for busy home cooks who still want to impress.

But beyond the ingredients, what I love most is how these cookies bring people together. I’ve made them in tiny kitchens across Italy and Spain, sharing them with friends old and new, and now I bake them with my girls in our cozy Monterey home. Each batch carries stories, laughter, and the warm feeling of family. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or just a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted
• Optional substitution: Use almond flour for half the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor
• Optional substitution: Swap pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts if preferred

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie (based on 24 cookies per batch)
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 11g (mostly from butter and pecans)
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g (including powdered sugar coating)
• Sodium: 40mg

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Steps to Create Your Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step is key to prevent sticking and help the cookies bake evenly.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar using an electric mixer or wooden spoon until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This is where the magic starts—think of it as building the cookie’s tender base, just like my Nonna Rosa used to tell me.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually add to the butter mixture, stirring slowly. The dough will be soft but not sticky.
5. Fold in the toasted, finely chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed. Toasting the nuts beforehand is a trick I picked up in Italy; it brings out the oils and deepens the flavor.
6. Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. I love this part—my girls always sneak a few balls for a quick taste!
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn a light golden color. They should still be pale on top—overbaking will dry them out.
8. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While still warm, carefully roll each cookie in powdered sugar. This creates that classic snowball look and adds a delicate sweetness.
9. Transfer to a wire rack and dust with additional powdered sugar once completely cool for a snowy finish.

Tips for Making the Best Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

From my years of baking alongside my mother and Nonna, and later experimenting in European kitchens, I’ve learned a few key tips that make all the difference:

• Butter temperature matters: Use softened—not melted—butter. This ensures the dough creams properly, giving you that tender crumb.
• Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Toast your nuts: Toasting pecans in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes releases their fragrant oils, enhancing every bite.
• Rolling technique: When shaping the cookies, keep your hands cool and flour-free to prevent the dough from sticking or warming too much.
• Freshness of powdered sugar: Use fresh powdered sugar for dusting to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth coating.
• Make ahead: The dough can be chilled overnight, which deepens the flavors and makes rolling easier—perfect for busy days.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a range of drinks and occasions. I often serve them during holiday gatherings alongside espresso or a rich hot chocolate, just as my family did on chilly Monterey evenings. For a lighter pairing, consider a fragrant Earl Grey or a delicate chamomile tea—they balance the richness of the cookies wonderfully. Learn more: Irresistibly Soft and Zesty Creamsicle Orange Cookies You Need to Try

For festive occasions, arrange them on a platter with fresh berries and sprigs of rosemary to add color and aroma. They also make charming gifts wrapped in parchment paper tied with twine—a tradition I started with Olivia and Isabella as a way to share our family’s love beyond the kitchen.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the best things about these cookies is that they keep well, allowing you to make a batch ahead of time without worry. Here’s how I store and refresh them:

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked and cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: I prefer to lightly warm them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to revive that fresh-baked texture. Avoid microwaving, which can make them too soft or chewy.
• Powdered sugar touch-up: After reheating, dust with a little extra powdered sugar for that fresh snowy look.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?

The main ingredients for Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?

The total time to make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies?

Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they are a slice of my family’s history, a blend of tradition and love that I am honored to share with you. From those flour-dusted mornings in Monterey to festive gatherings filled with laughter and stories, these cookies embody the heart of what cooking means to me: connection, comfort, and joy.

Whether you’re rolling dough with your children, gifting neighbors, or simply savoring a quiet moment with a cup of tea, I hope these cookies bring a little warmth to your home. Remember, every batch carries a story, so make it your own and enjoy the simple magic of baking something truly special.