Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies: A Sweet and Nutty Delight

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
4. Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands.
2. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
2. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Coat in Powdered Sugar

1. While the cookies are still warm, roll them gently in powdered sugar to coat.
2. Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Once cooled, roll them in powdered sugar a second time for a thick, snowy coating.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Snowball Cookies

• Chop Pecans Finely: Smaller pieces incorporate better into the dough and make the cookies easier to roll.
• Don’t Overbake: These cookies should remain pale with a light golden hue on the bottom.
• Coat While Warm: The first layer of powdered sugar sticks best when the cookies are warm.