Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies: A Festive Treat You’ll Love
Delight in the holiday spirit with these irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies. Their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, paired with a sweet cinnamon flavor, makes them an absolute must-have during the festive season. Perfect for cookie exchanges and Christmas gatherings, these cookies are sure to become your new holiday tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies embody the essence of the holiday season in every bite. Their tender and crumbly texture, combined with a dusting of cinnamon sugar, offers a delightful contrast that is both comforting and nostalgic. Ideal for holiday parties or cozy nights by the fireplace, these cookies are simple to make yet impressive in their appearance and taste.
One of the great joys of winter baking is filling your home with the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon. These cookies do just that, wrapping your senses in comfort and joy. Plus, their snowball shape makes them a fun addition to any festive dessert spread!
Context/Background
The origins of Snowball Cookies can be traced back to several different cultures, with variations found in Mexican, Russian, and Mediterranean cuisines. Traditionally known as “Mexican Wedding Cookies” or “Russian Tea Cakes,” these treats have been adapted to suit holiday tastes with the addition of cinnamon and sugar.
The technique for making these cookies involves blending butter, sugar, flour, and nuts into a dough, then rolling them into balls and coating them generously. Their hallmark is the powdery finish, reminiscent of freshly fallen snow—a fitting choice for winter celebrations.
Recipe Details
Serves: 24
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar for rolling
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon for rolling
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until fully incorporated. Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden brown.
- Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- While still warm, roll the baked cookies in the cinnamon sugar mixture, then cool on a wire rack.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- Chop pecans finely to prevent large pieces from disturbing the dough’s structure.
- Bake until just golden to keep the cookies tender and not overly crunchy.
- Roll cookies in cinnamon sugar while warm for better coating adherence.
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon sugar snowball cookies are best enjoyed with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee. They also make a delightful addition to a cookie exchange or as a gift wrapped in festive packaging.
Storage and Leftovers
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Simply allow them to thaw to room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a holiday cookie that’s easy to make and universally loved, Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are the perfect choice. With their warm cinnamon flavor and buttery texture, they’re bound to be a hit at any gathering. Give them a try and watch as they disappear before your eyes!
Recipe Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and add an extra tablespoon of flour.
- Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon in the dough for a spicier flavor profile.
- Cream cheese can be used in place of some butter for a tangier taste.