Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are the epitome of holiday charm—soft, crumbly, and dusted with powdered sugar, these little treats melt in your mouth with every buttery bite. Loaded with toasted pecans and a hint of vanilla, they’re as easy to make as they are delightful to eat. Whether you're baking for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or just because, these snowball cookies will bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion.
Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe
Servings: 24–30 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 45–60 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- Powdered sugar, for rolling
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If using raw pecans, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly golden, about 5 minutes. Let them cool before chopping.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter-sugar blend, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.

