Walnut Snowball Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that evokes warm memories of holiday gatherings and cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen. Originating from various cultures, these delightful cookies are often associated with festive celebrations, where they grace tables adorned with seasonal decorations. What makes the Walnut Snowball Cookies Recipe truly special is its ability to bring people together, creating a sense of nostalgia and joy with every bite. Whether you’re baking them for a festive occasion or simply to indulge in a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to capture your heart and taste buds alike.
What Is Walnut Snowball Cookies Recipe
The Walnut Snowball Cookies Recipe features buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are studded with finely chopped walnuts and rolled generously in powdered sugar, giving them their signature snowy appearance. The texture is both crumbly and tender, creating a blissful contrast that leaves you reaching for another one. Unlike traditional cookies that may be chewy or crunchy, these delightful snowballs offer a unique softness that melts away, leaving you with the rich flavor of walnuts and a hint of sweetness. They can be compared to Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, but the distinct nutty flavor of walnuts in this recipe sets it apart, making it a must-try for any cookie lover.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack at any time of year.
- Kid-friendly and great for involving children in the baking process.
- They look beautiful on a cookie platter, adding a touch of elegance.
How Does It Taste?
When you take a bite of Walnut Snowball Cookies, you’re met with a harmonious blend of buttery sweetness that dances on your palate. The rich, nutty flavor of the walnuts shines through, providing a delightful crunch that complements the soft, delicate cookie. The powdered sugar coating adds an extra touch of sweetness while also giving it a luxurious feel. Each cookie is a perfect balance of sweet and nutty, leaving you with a comforting aftertaste that feels like a warm hug.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
Key ingredients in the Walnut Snowball Cookies Recipe include:
- Walnuts: These nuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health.
- Butter: Adds richness to the cookies, providing a comforting flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: While it adds sweetness, a little goes a long way in achieving that delightful snowball appearance.
With these ingredients, you’re not just baking cookies; you’re creating a treat that brings both joy and a touch of goodness to your day. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to experience the magic of the Walnut Snowball Cookies Recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter – at room temperature, this adds richness and a tender texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – for sweetness and a light texture, it helps create the characteristic snowball appearance.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – provides the structure and body of the cookies.
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts – adds crunch and a nutty flavor that is essential to these cookies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet note.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – for combining the ingredients.
- Hand mixer or whisk – to cream the butter and sugar together.
- Baking sheet – for placing the cookies before baking.
- Parchment paper – to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – for portioning out the dough.
- Wire rack – for cooling the cookies after baking.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Gluten-free flour – swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend if needed.
- Nut alternatives – if you have nut allergies, try using sunflower seeds or omit the nuts entirely.
- Spices – add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
- Chocolate chips – for a sweeter version, fold in some chocolate chips with the walnuts.
How to Make Walnut Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar together using a hand mixer or whisk. Mix until the texture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture looks pale and has increased in volume.
Step 2: Add the Vanilla and Mix
Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until just combined. This adds a lovely aroma and flavor to your cookies.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and finely chopped walnuts. This ensures that the walnuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be cohesive but still tender.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each ball.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. The centers may look a bit soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, while they are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar for that iconic snowball look.
What to Serve With
Walnut Snowball Cookies pair beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. For a twist, try them with a glass of almond milk or hot cocoa. They also make a delightful addition to holiday cookie platters alongside other festive treats.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Chop the walnuts finely to ensure they distribute evenly and don’t overpower the cookie texture.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly before rolling in powdered sugar to avoid melting.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts on top after dusting with powdered sugar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies, so always use room temperature.
- Overmixing the dough can make the cookies tough; mix until just combined.
- Not allowing the cookies to cool enough before rolling in sugar can cause the sugar to melt.
- Skipping the cooling time on the baking sheet can cause the cookies to break apart.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store your Walnut Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Reheating
If you’d like to enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. For a crispier texture, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Absolutely! They store well and can be made a few days in advance.
- Can I use other nuts? Yes, feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor.
- Is it necessary to chill the dough? No, chilling is not required for this recipe, but if you prefer a firmer dough, feel free to chill for 30 minutes.
- Why are my cookies spreading too much? This could be due to using too warm butter or not enough flour; ensure accurate measurements.
Nutritional Info
Each Walnut Snowball Cookie contains approximately 120 calories, with 8 grams of fat, 10 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of protein. These delightful treats are a perfect sweet indulgence, especially during the holiday season!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion, the Walnut Snowball Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try! These little cookies are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also melt in your mouth with every bite, combining the rich flavor of walnuts with a hint of sweetness. I love how they can brighten up a holiday gathering or simply serve as a cozy snack during a quiet afternoon. Plus, their snowy appearance makes them perfect for festive celebrations! So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress your friends and family with the delightful charm of Walnut Snowball Cookies. Happy baking!
Walnut Snowball Cookies Recipe
A delightful treat that evokes warm memories of holiday gatherings, these Walnut Snowball Cookies are buttery and melt-in-your-mouth, perfect for festive occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 50 drops liquid stevia (about 1/4 tsp.)
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup coconut flour, plus 1 to 2 tbsp. more for rolling
- 1/2 cup confectioners Swerve, divided
Instructions
-
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Step 2
In a bowl, mix melted butter, egg, stevia, and vanilla extract until combined. -
Step 3
In another bowl, combine coconut flour and walnuts. -
Step 4
Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. -
Step 5
Roll dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet. -
Step 6
Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden. -
Step 7
Allow to cool slightly, then roll in confectioners Swerve.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.