Snow Ball Cookies

Snow Ball Cookies are a delightful treat that bring a touch of sweetness and a hint of nostalgia. These little bites of joy are soft on the inside and covered in a fluffy layer of powdered sugar. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family moments, or just a simple afternoon snack.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Snow Ball Cookies is not only an enjoyable process but also creates delicious results. With simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. These cookies are fun to make and even more fun to share. They bring smiles to everyone’s faces and create lasting memories around the kitchen table.

How to Make Snow Ball Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of butter, softened
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
• 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
3. Mix in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, salt, and finely chopped nuts, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden at the edges.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Once completely cool, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve Snow Ball Cookies

Snow Ball Cookies are best served fresh and dusted with powdered sugar. You can place them on a pretty plate and add some festive decorations around them for a charming presentation. These cookies also pair well with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a delightful treat for afternoon gatherings.

How to Store Snow Ball Cookies

To keep your Snow Ball Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can last for about a week at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.

Tips to Make Snow Ball Cookies

• Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Don’t skip the step of cooling the cookies before dusting them with powdered sugar, as this will help the sugar stick better.
• Experiment with different types of nuts or even add chocolate chips for a unique twist.

Variation

For a chocolate version of these cookies, you can substitute a quarter cup of flour with cocoa powder. You can also try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies without nuts?
   Yes, you can make them without nuts or replace them with seeds or chocolate chips if you prefer.

2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   While butter gives the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute in this recipe if needed.

3. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
   The cookies should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center. Remove them from the oven as soon as they reach that color.

Enjoy making your Snow Ball Cookies and sharing them with friends and family!