Thank you so much for stopping by—this one’s straight from the heart (and grandma’s tin of treasured treats)! These Easy Snowball Cookies are everything a holiday cookie should be: soft, buttery, lightly nutty, and rolled in a blanket of powdered sugar that looks just like freshly fallen snow. They’re the kind of cookie that disappears as soon as they hit the tray, and the best part? They’re so easy to make!

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What Are Snowball Cookies?

Also called Mexican Wedding Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes, snowball cookies are small, round butter cookies filled with chopped nuts and coated in powdered sugar. There are no eggs, no decorating fuss—just classic, simple goodness that’s all about that melt-in-your-mouth texture and nostalgic flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

Only 7 ingredients—super simple!
Melt-in-your-mouth soft with a tender crumb
Perfect make-ahead or freezer-friendly cookie
Adorable on cookie platters, in tins, or as gifts
Everyone (yes, everyone) loves them!

What They Taste Like

They’re buttery, just a little nutty, with a rich shortbread-like texture and a sweet powdered sugar finish. Not too sweet, not too soft—they have the perfect crisp-meets-tender bite. Basically, the snowball version of cookie perfection.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
¾ cup finely chopped pecans (or walnuts or almonds)
Optional: ¼ tsp almond extract for a nutty boost

Tools You’ll Need

Electric mixer (hand or stand)
Mixing bowls
Cookie sheet
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop (optional, but great for even balls)
Wire rack

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Nuts: Pecans are traditional, but walnuts or almonds work great too
Gluten-free? Use a 1:1 GF flour blend
Flavor twist: Add a dash of cinnamon or orange zest for a holiday kick
No nuts? Try mini chocolate chips for a nut-free version

How to Make Easy Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter & Sugar

In a large bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla (and almond extract if using).

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

Slowly mix in flour and salt until combined. Fold in chopped nuts. Dough will be crumbly but will hold together when pressed.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up and make rolling easier.

Step 4: Shape & Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a lined cookie sheet. Bake for 12–14 minutes, until set but not browned.

Step 5: Roll in Powdered Sugar

Cool cookies for 5 minutes, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar. Let cool completely, then roll again for that snowball look!

What to Serve With Them

A warm mug of cocoa, coffee, or spiced tea
Holiday breakfast or dessert boards
Wrapped up in gift tins for neighbors or teachers

Pair them with other sweet seasonal faves:

Chocolate Ice Cream Bars – for a frozen, chocolatey contrast
Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa – rich, cozy, and meant for cookie-dunking
Spinach Mushroom Bacon Alfredo Poutine – not sweet, but the ultimate cozy comfort food to serve before dessert!

Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies

Use room temp butter—it makes creaming easier and the cookies fluffier
Chill the dough so cookies keep their shape
Roll twice in sugar—once warm, once cooled—for that perfect snowy coat
Store in an airtight tin to keep them fresh and soft for up to a week

Storage & Freezing

Room temp: Store in an airtight container up to 1 week
Freezer (baked): Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to bags for up to 2 months
Freeze dough: Roll into balls, freeze, then bake straight from frozen (add 1–2 mins to bake time)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without nuts?

Yes! You can skip the nuts and add mini chocolate chips or leave them plain.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Highly recommended. It keeps the cookies from spreading and helps the flavor develop.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes—use plant-based butter and check that your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly.

Wrapping It All Up

These Easy Snowball Cookies are a holiday classic for a reason—they’re buttery, bite-sized, and beautiful, and they never fail to bring joy (and second servings). Whether you’re baking for your family, gifting a tin, or adding to your cookie exchange lineup, these sweet little snowballs belong in your holiday baking traditions.

Looking for more festive treats and cozy bites? Check out:

Tried this recipe? You know I want to see those snowy cookie trays! ❄️🍪
Tag me on Pinterest @TheKitchenJoyy and post with #Mmmrecipes so I can celebrate your holiday bakes and repost your gorgeous treats!