Snowball Cookies Recipe: Snowball cookies—also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies—are buttery, nutty, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread-style cookies, coated generously in powdered sugar. They’re round, often packed with finely chopped pecans or walnuts, and known for their crumbly, tender texture. Once baked, they get their “snowball” name from being rolled (twice!) in powdered sugar, giving them a soft, snowy exterior that’s not only gorgeous but absolutely irresistible.
These cookies don’t rely on eggs or heavy moisture; instead, they use the perfect balance of butter and flour to create a dense yet tender dough. The nuts give the cookies character and flavor, while the sugar coating adds a festive finish. You can think of them as the cookie world’s equivalent of truffles—rich, pretty, and bite-sized.
Why They’re Perfect for Every Occasion
Snowball cookies are extremely versatile. Need a quick dessert for a holiday gathering? Want something sweet to go with your coffee? Craving an easy bake with ingredients already in your pantry? Snowball cookies are your answer. They’re a hit at weddings, parties, and cookie exchanges—and because they’re easy to store and transport, they make excellent edible gifts.
Another bonus? They’re incredibly easy to make. No need to chill the dough for hours, no complex rolling or cutting—just scoop, roll, bake, and dust. Plus, their classic, nostalgic flavor makes them a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you dress them up with flavor variations or keep them traditional, these cookies never disappoint.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients
You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to make snowball cookies. In fact, you might already have everything in your kitchen:
- Unsalted butter (1 cup / 2 sticks) – The backbone of this recipe. Make sure it’s room temperature for easy mixing.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup for dough + 1 cup for coating) – Provides a smooth sweetness without graininess.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups) – Helps form that classic shortbread structure.
- Chopped nuts (1 cup) – Pecans or walnuts are traditional, but almonds or hazelnuts also work.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Adds warm, sweet flavor depth.
- Salt (1/4 tsp) – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavor of the butter and nuts.
These are the essential elements to create that signature snowball cookie texture—rich, crumbly, and loaded with buttery goodness.
Optional Add-ins
Want to make your cookies stand out a bit more? Here are some tasty additions:
- Mini chocolate chips – Add a chocolatey twist.
- Cinnamon or nutmeg (1/4 tsp) – Give it a warm, spiced note.
- Almond extract (1/2 tsp) – For a nuttier, more aromatic flavor.
- Citrus zest (lemon or orange) – Brighten up the flavor with a zing.
Just make sure not to overload the dough—too many add-ins can make the cookies crumble more easily.
Ingredient Substitutes for Dietary Needs
Need to tweak the recipe for allergies or dietary preferences? Here are some common substitutes:
- Gluten-free flour blend – Swap cup-for-cup if needed. Choose one that contains xanthan gum for better texture.
- Vegan butter – Works well as a one-to-one replacement. Look for brands like Earth Balance or Miyoko’s.
- Nut-free option – Omit nuts or replace with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
These simple swaps ensure that everyone at the table can enjoy a snowball (or three).
Essential Tools and Equipment
Mixing Tools
You don’t need fancy kitchen gear to make snowball cookies, but having the right tools can definitely make the process smoother:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer – For creaming the butter and sugar to a light, fluffy consistency.
- Mixing bowls – At least two: one for mixing dough, and one for rolling cookies in powdered sugar.
- Rubber spatula – Helps scrape down the sides of the bowl and ensures no ingredient gets left behind.
Baking Tools
These tools help ensure even baking and beautiful results:
- Baking sheet – A heavy-duty, non-stick sheet works best.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – Keeps cookie size uniform for even baking.
Optional Equipment for Best Results
- Cooling rack – Allows cookies to cool evenly and quickly.
- Fine mesh sieve – For an ultra-smooth powdered sugar finish.
- Nut grinder or food processor – Ensures nuts are finely and evenly chopped, which helps with consistent texture.
Step-by-Step Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1 – Prepping Your Workspace
Before you start baking, set up your space like a pro. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gather your ingredients — 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (softened), ½ cup powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2¼ cups all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work best). Having everything pre-measured makes this recipe smooth and stress-free — like baking on autopilot.
Step 2 – Mixing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer. Add the vanilla extract and beat again until combined. Gradually mix in the flour and salt, then fold in the chopped nuts. The dough should be soft but not sticky — if it feels crumbly, keep mixing until it comes together. Don’t worry, it’s supposed to be thick and buttery, not gooey like chocolate chip cookie dough.
Step 3 – Shaping the Cookies
Scoop out small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into smooth balls between your palms. Place them about 1 inch apart on your prepared baking sheet. They don’t spread much while baking, so you can fit quite a few on one tray. These cute little rounds are the “snowballs” that’ll soon be dusted in sugary white perfection.
Step 4 – Baking to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should stay pale — that’s part of their charm. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can make them dry. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes. They’ll firm up as they cool but stay melt-in-your-mouth soft inside.
Step 5 – Rolling in Powdered Sugar
While the cookies are still warm, gently roll each one in powdered sugar to create that signature snowy coating. Let them cool completely on a wire rack, then give them a second roll in sugar for an extra snowy finish. This double dusting makes them look like freshly fallen snow — and taste even sweeter.
Delicate, buttery, and dusted with sweetness, Snowball Cookies are the perfect winter treat — crumbly on the outside, tender on the inside, and pure magic in every bite.
Tips for the Best Snowball Cookies
Getting the Right Texture
Perfect snowball cookies should be soft and crumbly but not dry. Here’s how to nail that texture every time:
- Measure flour correctly. Too much flour can make the dough dry. Spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
- Don’t overbake. These cookies aren’t supposed to be golden brown. Pull them when the bottoms are just lightly golden.
- Use real butter. Margarine or oil-based substitutes won’t give you the same richness or structure.
Let the cookies cool properly before the second sugar roll. Warm cookies will absorb too much sugar, while cold ones won’t hold it well.
Preventing Over-Baking
These cookies go from perfect to overdone in a flash. Because they don’t visibly brown on top, it’s easy to misjudge. Start checking at 12 minutes and use your nose—if you smell nutty butter goodness, they’re probably ready.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These cookies store extremely well, which makes them great for gifting and holiday prep.
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- Freezer: Baked cookies freeze well for up to 2 months. Just re-roll in sugar after thawing.
- Make-ahead dough: The dough can be made and refrigerated for 3 days, or frozen for 3 months. Thaw and bring to room temperature before baking.
Flavor Variations to Try
Chocolate Chip Snowballs
Want to take your snowball cookies to the next level? Add mini chocolate chips to the dough. The semi-sweet bits provide a decadent contrast to the buttery base and create a delightful surprise in every bite.
To make chocolate chip snowballs:
- Reduce chopped nuts to 3/4 cup.
- Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips.
- Proceed with the recipe as normal.
These cookies are especially popular with kids and chocolate lovers. They’re also perfect for cookie exchanges because they stand out from the traditional batch while still delivering that classic texture.
You can also experiment with dark chocolate chunks, white chocolate chips, or even chocolate-dipped snowballs after baking and cooling. The flavor combos are endless, and the contrast between rich chocolate and delicate powdered sugar is absolutely divine.
Lemon or Orange Zest Twists
For a bright, refreshing flavor profile, try adding lemon or orange zest to your dough. Citrus zest gives the cookies a subtle zing and works beautifully with the buttery richness.
- Add 1 tablespoon of zest (lemon or orange) when mixing in vanilla extract.
- Consider using almond extract with citrus for a more floral flavor.
These variations are ideal for spring events or as a refreshing end to a heavy holiday meal. Pair them with tea or a citrus cocktail for a bakery-worthy finish.
Nut-Free Versions
Have a nut allergy in the family? No problem. Snowball cookies can still be amazing without nuts.
Here’s how to do it:
- Simply omit the nuts and add 2 extra tablespoons of flour to maintain structure.
- You can also add crushed sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even crushed pretzels for crunch without allergens.
These nut-free snowballs still deliver that melt-in-your-mouth texture and sugary charm—without the worry.
Serving Suggestions
Holiday Displays
Snowball cookies are basically made for the holidays. Their snowy look makes them the star of any dessert table or cookie platter.
- Place them in festive cupcake liners for a polished look.
- Arrange in tiers on a holiday dessert stand with other classic cookies like gingerbread men and shortbread.
- Dust with a final layer of powdered sugar before serving for an extra-snowy appearance.
Don’t forget to add a few sprigs of rosemary or cranberries to the tray for color contrast!
Perfect Pairings with Drinks
These cookies shine brightest when served alongside the right beverage. Try pairing snowball cookies with:
- Hot cocoa
- Chai latte
- Spiced cider
- Eggnog
- Dessert wines (like Moscato or port)
The buttery richness pairs especially well with warm, spiced drinks, making them a go-to for cold-weather entertaining.
Gifting Snowball Cookies
Looking for the perfect edible gift? Snowball cookies are ideal. Their sturdy shape and long shelf life make them travel-friendly, and their look is festive enough to wow anyone.
Tips for gifting:
- Package them in tins or mason jars lined with parchment paper.
- Add a hand-written tag with the name and ingredients (great for allergies).
- Tie with ribbon or twine for that rustic, homemade charm.
They’re perfect for neighbors, teachers, coworkers—or anyone who appreciates a classic homemade treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Why Your Cookies Might Crumble
Crumbly dough is normal—but overly dry cookies? That’s a mistake.
Here’s why it happens:
- Too much flour – Always measure by spooning flour into the cup and leveling off. Don’t scoop directly from the bag.
- Overmixing – Once the flour is added, mix gently. Overworked dough = tough cookies.
- Underbaking or overbaking – They should be just barely golden on the bottom. Too little time, and they fall apart. Too much, and they dry out.
If your dough is too crumbly before baking, gently knead it a bit more. Still not coming together? A teaspoon of milk can help bind it without changing the texture.
Powdered Sugar Rolling Errors
Rolling too soon or too late can lead to patchy, sad-looking snowballs. Here’s how to get it right:
- Roll once while the cookies are warm—this gives the sugar something to cling to.
- Let them cool completely, then roll again for the perfect snowy finish.
If you forget to double-roll, the cookies may look dull or uneven. Not the end of the world—but double rolling really does make the magic happen.
Mixing Mistakes
Avoid using cold butter—you’ll struggle to cream it properly, and your dough will be uneven. Also, never skip the salt, even in sweet cookies. A small pinch brings out the richness and makes the sugar pop.
Finally, remember: patience is key. Let your cookies cool before that final roll in sugar. If you rush it, you’ll end up with a sticky mess.
Nutritional Information
Calorie Count
While snowball cookies are small, they pack a buttery punch when it comes to calories. On average, one standard-sized snowball cookie contains around 90–120 calories, depending on the type and amount of nuts and whether any chocolate or additional ingredients are added.
Here’s a rough breakdown per cookie:
| Ingredient | Calories (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Butter (2 sticks) | 1,600 |
| Powdered Sugar (1.5 cups) | 700 |
| Flour (2 1/4 cups) | 900 |
| Nuts (1 cup) | 750 |
For a batch of 30 cookies, this totals about 4,000+ calories, averaging 135 calories per cookie with nuts and sugar coating.
Macronutrients
Per cookie (standard size):
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Most of the fat comes from the butter and nuts, and the carbs come from flour and powdered sugar. They’re not exactly “health” cookies—but they’re a sweet treat meant to be enjoyed in moderation.
Allergen Info
Snowball cookies are traditionally made with:
- Dairy (butter)
- Wheat (flour)
- Tree nuts (pecans, walnuts)
They do not contain eggs, which makes them ideal for people with egg allergies. Always label your cookies if gifting, especially if you use nut or dairy substitutes.
How to Store and Freeze Snowball Cookies
Short-Term Storage
These cookies actually taste better a day or two after baking, once the flavors have had time to settle and meld.
To store:
- Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper.
- They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Avoid storing them in the fridge—they can absorb odors and the sugar coating may become sticky.
Freezing for Later
Snowball cookies are excellent for freezing, both before and after baking.
To freeze the dough:
- Roll into balls and freeze on a sheet until solid.
- Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Bake directly from frozen—just add a minute or two to the bake time.
To freeze baked cookies:
- Let them cool and freeze in a container layered with parchment.
- Thaw at room temperature.
- Re-roll in powdered sugar after thawing for the freshest look.
Reheating Tips
If you want to warm them up, place a few cookies on a baking sheet and heat at 275°F (135°C) for 5–7 minutes. This refreshes the texture and warms the butter slightly without overbaking.
Avoid microwaving—it can make them rubbery or cause the sugar to melt off unevenly.
Snowball Cookies Around the World
Snowball cookies may be popular in the U.S., but they’re enjoyed worldwide in different forms and names.
Mexican Wedding Cookies
These are nearly identical to traditional snowball cookies but are often slightly larger and served during weddings, holidays, and celebrations in Mexico. They’re typically made with pecans and sometimes flavored with cinnamon.
Russian Tea Cakes
This version is believed to have originated from Russian tea-time traditions, hence the name. The recipe is nearly the same, with the cookies served alongside tea and other small pastries. Walnuts or hazelnuts are common in Russian varieties.
Italian Butterballs
Italian bakeries often offer these cookies during Christmas. They’re very similar but may include almond extract and sometimes feature coarser nuts like whole ground almonds or hazelnuts for a bolder flavor.
Regardless of the name or origin, the essence is the same: a melt-in-your-mouth, buttery, nutty cookie wrapped in powdered sugar.
Kid-Friendly Baking Tips
Safe Tasks for Kids
Snowball cookies are perfect for baking with kids because there’s no slicing, no sharp tools, and no complex decorations.
Here are some safe and fun jobs kids can help with:
- Scooping and rolling the dough
- Chopping soft nuts with a kid-safe knife
- Rolling cookies in powdered sugar
- Packing cookies into tins or bags for gifts
They’ll love being part of the process and seeing the transformation from dough to snowy cookie.
Making It Fun
Turn your baking session into a mini winter-themed party:
- Let kids name the cookies.
- Play holiday music while baking.
- Use sprinkles or edible glitter for a playful touch (especially on the second sugar roll).
Letting children help encourages confidence in the kitchen and creates lasting memories—plus, who doesn’t love sneaking a warm cookie straight from the tray?
Decorating with Kids
While traditional snowball cookies aren’t decorated, you can get creative:
- Add colored powdered sugar (pink, green, or blue for themes).
- Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate, then top with crushed candy canes or sprinkles.
- Use edible markers to draw little faces or snowflakes after they cool.
The best part? There’s no wrong way to make snowball cookies when you’re baking with little hands.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Alternatives
Best Flour Alternatives
If you’re looking to make gluten-free snowball cookies, it’s easier than ever thanks to high-quality flour alternatives. The key is finding a gluten-free flour that mimics the structure and texture of all-purpose flour.
Here are the best options:
- 1:1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour (like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur) – These blends are the most reliable and include binding agents like xanthan gum.
- Almond Flour – Adds a nutty flavor and buttery texture but may need extra binding (chia egg or extra butter).
- Oat Flour – Naturally gluten-free and soft in texture, but works best when combined with another flour.
Avoid coconut flour unless you’re an experienced baker—it absorbs too much moisture and changes the texture drastically.
Always test your gluten-free flour to make sure the cookies hold together and don’t crumble too much.
Vegan Butter and Binders
Want to make these cookies vegan? No problem. Since the original recipe is already egg-free, you only need to replace the butter.
Here’s what works well:
- Vegan butter sticks – Earth Balance or Miyoko’s work beautifully and mimic real butter’s fat content.
- Coconut oil (solid) – For a slight coconut flavor and crispier texture.
Avoid margarine or spreadable butters—they don’t offer the same structure and often contain water, which can affect baking.
No additional binders like flax or chia eggs are needed since snowball cookies hold together without eggs. Just be sure to chill the dough slightly if it’s too soft to roll.
Adjusting for Flavor and Texture
When making gluten-free or vegan snowball cookies, expect small texture differences. Vegan versions might be a little softer, and gluten-free ones can be slightly more delicate.
Tips for success:
- Chill the dough before rolling to help it firm up.
- Use finely ground nuts to improve structure.
- Double-roll in powdered sugar—this helps hide any minor cracking or texture flaws.
With the right tweaks, your gluten-free and vegan cookies will be just as festive, flavorful, and irresistible.
FAQs about Snowball Cookies Recipe
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Snowball cookies actually taste better after a day. You can make them up to a week in advance and store in an airtight container. They also freeze beautifully.
2. Do I have to use nuts?
Not at all. You can omit the nuts and add extra flour (about 2 tablespoons) to keep the structure. Or try seeds, pretzels, or even chocolate chips for crunch and flavor.
3. What’s the best way to ship them?
Let them cool completely, place them in cupcake liners inside a sturdy tin or container, and pack with bubble wrap. Include extra powdered sugar in a small bag for touch-ups on arrival.
4. Can I double or halve the recipe?
Yes! This recipe is very forgiving. Just maintain the same ratios. If you double the recipe, consider using two bowls and baking in batches for best results.
5. How long will they stay fresh?
Stored properly, they stay fresh at room temperature for up to 7 days. In the freezer, they’ll last for 2–3 months. Just re-roll in powdered sugar before serving for a fresh look.
Conclusion
Snowball cookies are the ultimate nostalgic, buttery bite of holiday magic—but they’re also incredibly easy and rewarding to make year-round. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a tray of cookies that are not only stunning to look at but also impossible to stop eating.
Whether you’re sticking with the classic pecan version or experimenting with lemon zest, chocolate chips, or vegan adaptations, snowball cookies always deliver. Their crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet snowy finish are crowd-pleasers for every age, occasion, and craving.
So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and start shaping your snowballs. Once you taste that buttery goodness covered in a blanket of sugar, you’ll understand why these cookies have become a beloved tradition around the world.
