Snowball cookies—also called Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies—are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats rolled in powdered sugar. Here’s a reliable, classic recipe that turns out perfect every time:
❄️ Best Snowball Cookies Recipe
🧾 Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work best)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven
Set to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet. - Cream butter & sugar
Beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. - Add vanilla
Mix in vanilla extract. - Combine dry ingredients
Stir in flour and salt until dough forms. - Add nuts
Fold in finely chopped nuts. - Shape cookies
Roll dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each). - Bake
Place on tray and bake for 12–15 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden. - First sugar coating
Let cookies cool slightly, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm. - Second coating
Once fully cooled, roll again for that classic snowy finish ❄️
💡 Tips for Perfect Snowballs
- Use softened butter, not melted—this keeps the texture delicate.
- Finely chop nuts so cookies hold together better.
- Don’t overbake—they should stay pale on top.
- Double-roll in sugar for that iconic look and taste.
🍫 Variations
- Chocolate twist: Add mini chocolate chips
- Coconut version: Replace nuts with shredded coconut
- Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom
If you want, I can give you a no-nut version, air fryer method, or a bakery-style ultra-soft version.