Best Snowball Cookies

These snowball cookies are simply irresistible. It's sure to become a go-to during the holiday season, but you'll want to make this snowball cookie recipe all year long.

What Are Snowball Cookies?

Snowballs, a.k.a. Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, are melt-in-your-mouth cookies made with staple ingredients: butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, flour, finely chopped nuts, and salt. The round cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, so they sort of resemble snowballs. The festive treat is often served during the holiday season.

How to Make Snowball Cookies

Not only are snowballs delicious, they're incredibly easy to make. You'll find the full, step-by-step recipe below — but here's a brief overview of what you can expect when you bake these buttery snowball cookies:

1. Beat the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla.2. Mix in the flour, pecans, and salt.3. Shape into balls and bake until set.4. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar.5. Let the cookies cool, then roll them in sugar again.

Tip: For a festive twist, add ¼ cup finely crushed peppermint candy canes to the confectioners' sugar used for the final dusting.

How to Store Snowball Cookies

You can store snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you stack the cookies, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.

Can You Freeze Snowball Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze snowball cookies for up to two months. For the best results, freeze the cookie dough before baking and rolling in powdered sugar.

Arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet, cover, and freeze for a few hours or up to overnight. When the dough is frozen, transfer to zip-top bags or another freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake according to the instructions.

Cookdap Community Tips and Praise

“These are my new favorite holiday cookies….so simple and delicious,” raves Sharon Howard. “I followed the recipe exactly the first time and they were wonderful. The second batch I made I used walnuts and that was also very good.”

“These are a great favorite at our house for christmas as well,” says K Hillbilly. “For a tasty surprise, form the dough around a hershey kiss or rolo caramel..that is how we make them!”

“Simple recipe and always a hit,” according to Harriet Ruth-Willis. “What’s not to like — butter, nuts, vanilla, sugar, and a little flour to hold it all together. Always turn out great.”