If you love buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, then you’re in for a treat! Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a timeless classic. These delicate, powdered sugar-coated delights are rich, crumbly, and utterly delicious. Perfect for the holidays or any time you crave a simple yet indulgent dessert, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why You'll Love These Snowball Cookies
✔ Easy to Make – With just a few pantry staples, these cookies come together in no time.
✔ Irresistibly Buttery – Made with real butter, they have a rich and tender texture.
✔ Perfect for Gifting – Their elegant, snowy appearance makes them ideal for holiday cookie trays.
✔ No Eggs Needed – This simple recipe is perfect for those looking for an egg-free treat.
Ingredients & Their Roles
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – The key to the cookies’ melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using real butter is essential for that rich, classic flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, divided – Used inside and outside the cookies. The sugar in the dough gives them a delicate sweetness, while the final dusting creates their signature snowy look.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the cookies with a warm, fragrant sweetness.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cookies while keeping them light and crumbly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth. This step ensures a tender cookie.
Step 3: Add Vanilla & Flour
Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies dense.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are light golden brown. The tops should remain pale.
Step 6: Cool Slightly
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Coat in Powdered Sugar
Once cooled, roll each cookie in the remaining 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar to give them their classic snowball effect.
Pro Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
✔ Use room-temperature butter – This ensures the dough mixes evenly and gives the cookies their signature soft texture.
✔ Chill the dough if needed – If your dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before rolling.
✔ Double coat for extra snowiness – Roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice: once while they’re still warm and again after they’ve fully cooled for a thicker, more beautiful coating.
✔ Store properly – Keep these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies pair wonderfully with:
- A hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
- A glass of milk for a nostalgic, comforting dessert.
- Holiday dessert platters alongside gingerbread, shortbread, and chocolate truffles.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Cookie Recipe
Snowball Cookies are the ultimate bite-sized treat—buttery, crumbly, and coated in a sweet dusting of powdered sugar. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect for holiday baking or whenever you need a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert. Try them today, and enjoy a classic cookie that never goes out of style!