Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the chopped pecans.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden brown.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
10. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar until coated.
11. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 24 cookies
Nutritional information:
Calories: 160
Total fat: 12g
Saturated fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 25mg
Total carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the amount of salt in the recipe by half.
- You can use any type of nut you prefer instead of pecans, such as walnuts or almonds.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Roll the cookies in colored sugar or sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before starting the recipe.
- Don't overmix the dough, or the cookies will be tough.
- Roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice for a thicker coating.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
These cookies are best served at room temperature and do not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a platter and dust with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Pairings:
Serve these cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.
Suggested side dishes:
These cookies are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with fresh fruit or a cheese plate for a more substantial dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to help it come together.
- If the cookies spread too much during baking, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before starting the recipe to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, are a popular holiday treat that originated in Europe. They are traditionally made with butter, sugar, flour, and nuts, and rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
Flavor profiles:
These cookies are buttery, nutty, and sweet, with a delicate texture and a hint of salt.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these cookies as a sweet treat after dinner, or as a festive addition to a holiday cookie platter.
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