Buttery Walnut Snowball Cookies

Introduction

Did you know that snowball cookies are a classic holiday treat, loved for their buttery texture and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness? These Buttery Walnut Snowball Cookies (also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies) are delicate, crumbly, and coated in powdered sugar, making them irresistibly soft and festive.

Perfect for holidays, tea time, or gifting, they’re simple to make yet elegant to serve.

Ingredients

1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
1 cup (120 g) finely chopped walnuts

Ingredient Tip: Finely chopped walnuts ensure a smooth, delicate texture without large chunks.

Timing

Step	Time
Prep	15 minutes
Chilling	20 minutes
Baking	12–15 minutes
Total	~45–50 minutes

Pro Tip: Chilling the dough helps cookies hold their shape while baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream Butter & Sugar

In a bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in flour and salt until combined.
Fold in chopped walnuts.

Step 3: Chill Dough

Cover and refrigerate dough for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Shape Cookies

Roll dough into 1-inch balls.
Place on a lined baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden.

Step 6: Coat in Sugar

Let cookies cool slightly (still warm).
Roll in powdered sugar.
Once fully cooled, roll again for a thick snowy coating.

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per cookie (makes ~24 cookies):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	110 kcal
Protein	1.5 g
Carbohydrates	10 g
Fat	7 g

Nutrition Insight: A rich, buttery treat, best enjoyed in moderation as part of festive occasions.

Variations

Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds
Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for warmth
Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate for a twist
Use hazelnuts for a deeper nutty flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
Arrange on a holiday dessert platter
Package in gift boxes for homemade presents

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking: Cookies should stay pale, not browned
Skipping chilling: Dough may spread too much
Rolling when too hot: Sugar may melt instead of coating
Large walnut pieces: Can affect texture

Storing Tips

Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months
Re-coat with powdered sugar before serving if needed