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The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with some delightful Snow Ball Christmas Cookies? These little treats are a festive favorite that evoke the magic of snowy winter days, bringing warmth and joy to every gathering. With their buttery texture and a dusting of powdered sugar that resembles fresh snow, these cookies are not only delicious but also a beautiful addition to your holiday cookie platter. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a cherished tradition!
A Touch of Tradition
Snow Ball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, have been a beloved holiday treat for generations. Their melt-in-your-mouth goodness and simple preparation make them a must-have for your Christmas cookie lineup. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing, making them an ideal gift for friends and family during the holidays.
Ingredients
- For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or your favorite)
Serving Size
Serves: 24 cookies
Size: 1 cookie
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes, plus cooling time
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Add Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped nuts. This adds a lovely crunch to your cookies and elevates the flavor.
- Shape the Cookies: Using your hands, shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake; the cookies should remain soft.
- Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, roll the cookies in powdered sugar until well coated.
- Serve and Enjoy: These Snow Ball Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a festive platter, or package them up as sweet gifts for your loved ones.
Tips for the Perfect Snow Ball Cookies
- Nut Choices: Feel free to use any nuts you prefer, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Almonds, hazelnuts, or even chocolate chips can add a delicious twist!
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
- Make Ahead: You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just roll the dough into balls when you’re ready to bake.
The Sweet Finale
These Snow Ball Christmas Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a festive experience that brings families together. With each bite, you’ll be reminded of cozy gatherings and cherished holiday memories. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create a batch of these delightful cookies to share with your loved ones this holiday season. Don’t forget to share your cookie-making adventures and any fun variations you try! Happy baking!
