Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies

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Ah, Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies! Just the name brings back a whirlwind of memories for me. I can still picture her tiny kitchen, warm and cozy, filled with the sweet, buttery aroma of these delightful treats as they baked in the oven. Every Christmas, without fail, she would whip up a big batch, and we’d gather around the table, eagerly waiting for them to cool so we could roll them in powdered sugar. It was a magical time filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, the irresistible taste of those melt-in-your-mouth cookies.

These cookies are not just a holiday tradition; they’re perfect for any occasion when you want to sprinkle a little joy into someone’s day. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. They’re soft, buttery, and so simple to make that you’ll find yourself baking them again and again. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies

Oh, where do I even begin? Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies are like little bites of nostalgia wrapped in powdered sugar. The moment you pop one in your mouth, you’re greeted with a soft, buttery texture that just melts away. It’s a delightful experience that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

These cookies are buttery with just the right hint of sweetness, thanks to that dusting of powdered sugar. And let’s not forget the lovely crunch from the finely chopped pecans! They add this wonderful depth of flavor that makes each bite so satisfying. I swear, they’re practically irresistible! Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for those last-minute gatherings or cozy nights at home. Trust me, once you start making these, you’ll find yourself baking them for every occasion — from holiday parties to simple Sunday afternoons with a cup of tea. They’re just that good! So, get ready to make some cherished memories while baking these delightful cookies that are sure to brighten anyone’s day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create something truly magical. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup butter, softened: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. I love using unsalted butter for this recipe because it gives me control over the sweetness.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: This is what gives the cookies their sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture. You’ll also need some extra for rolling the finished cookies!
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: A must for that warm, comforting flavor. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of our cookies. Just your regular flour will do, and be sure to measure it accurately for the best results.
• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans: These add a delightful crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to swap them out for walnuts or even finely chopped almonds!
• Extra powdered sugar for rolling: You can never have enough powdered sugar when it comes to these cookies! It gives them that snowy appearance that’s just so festive.

Gather all your ingredients, and let’s get started on creating these delicious little bites of joy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, let’s jump right into the fun part — making Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delightful cookies ready in no time.

Preparing the Dough

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when our cookies are ready to bake! Now, grab a large mixing bowl and add the softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or a wooden spoon, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. If you don’t have a mixer, no worries — just put a little elbow grease into it!

Next, add in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well until it’s fully incorporated. Now, it’s time to gradually add the 2¼ cups of all-purpose flour and ¾ cup of finely chopped pecans. I like to add the flour in increments, about a cup at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition. Don’t overmix — we want that tender cookie texture!

Shaping the Cookies

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to form those adorable little snowballs! Use a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each piece into a ball about 1 inch in diameter. You might want to keep your hands slightly damp or dust them with a little flour to prevent sticking. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them because they’ll spread out as they bake.

Baking and Cooling

Now for the exciting part — baking! Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let those cookies bake for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look a bit soft. They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a little underdone at this point!

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before rolling them in the extra powdered sugar. This is a crucial step that gives them that signature snowy look! After rolling, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. And just like that, you’ve created a batch of Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies, ready to be enjoyed!

Variations

One of the best things about Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies is how easily you can customize them to suit your taste! If you’re a chocolate lover like me, consider adding ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful surprise in every bite. It adds a rich, chocolaty twist that pairs beautifully with the buttery texture.

Feeling adventurous? You could also experiment with different nuts. Try swapping the pecans for walnuts, or even going nut-free by adding a touch of shredded coconut for a tropical flair! And if you want to play around with flavors, why not add a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla? It brings a whole new level of deliciousness to these cookies. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Serving and Storage Tips

Now that you’ve baked a delightful batch of Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies, let’s talk about how to serve them and keep them fresh! These cookies are best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature, so if you can, let them sit for a bit after cooling. They make a wonderful treat alongside a cup of coffee or tea, and they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or family get-togethers. Plating them on a festive dish can really elevate the experience — just imagine those snowy cookies shining like little treasures!

When it comes to storage, you’ll want to keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They’ll last about a week at room temperature, but if you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before you seal them up to avoid any sogginess.

If you find yourself with extra cookies (which is a great problem to have!), you can also freeze them! Just layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature, and they’ll be just as delicious as the day you made them!

Helpful Notes

As you dive into making Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies, here are a few extra tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly! If you’re looking to lighten them up a bit, you can substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. It keeps the cookies moist without all the extra fat. Alternatively, for a dairy-free version, try using coconut oil instead of butter — it’ll give a lovely flavor twist!

If you or someone you know has nut allergies, feel free to leave out the pecans or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for that crunch. And for those who are gluten-sensitive, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s one that’s suitable for baking, and you’ll still get those delightful snowball cookies everyone loves!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature.

2. What if I don’t have pecans?
No worries at all! You can easily substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even leave them out completely for a nut-free version. If you want to add some crunch, consider using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead!

3. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can, but I recommend using unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture. If you do use margarine, make sure it’s a high-quality one that mimics butter well, as this impacts the overall taste of the cookies.

4. How should I store the cookies?
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks, but make sure they’re completely cool before sealing them to prevent sogginess.

5. Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips make a delicious addition. Just fold in about ½ cup of chocolate chips when you mix in the flour and pecans for a delightful surprise in every bite!

Final Thoughts

As you bake up a batch of Grandma’s Snowballs Cookies, I hope you’re filled with the same warmth and joy that I feel every time I whip them up. These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a love letter to cherished memories and family traditions. I can’t wait for you to experience that first bite when they melt in your mouth, dusted with that snowy sweetness.

So, gather your ingredients, turn on some festive tunes, and let the magic of baking fill your kitchen. I’d love to hear about your own memories with these cookies or any fun variations you tried! Remember, every batch is a chance to create new moments, so enjoy every moment in the kitchen. Happy baking!

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