During the holiday season in the United Kingdom, homes are filled with the delightful aroma of freshly baked treats. One classic Christmas recipe that never fails to bring warmth and joy is Pecan Snowball Cookies. These delectable treats are perfect for sharing with loved ones or for enjoying by the fireside with a cup of hot cocoa. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a nutty crunch, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition in your household. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these irresistible Pecan Snowball Cookies!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
– Additional powdered sugar for rolling
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
3. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually stir in the flour until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
5. Fold in the chopped pecans, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Take a small amount of dough and roll it into a 1-inch ball using your hands. Repeat this process with the rest of the dough, placing the balls on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
8. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
9. While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated. The warmth of the cookies will allow the sugar to stick and create a snowy effect.
10. Once coated, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Before serving or storing, dust the cookies with an additional sprinkle of powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
12. Enjoy these Pecan Snowball Cookies as a delightful Christmas treat or package them up in a festive box to give as thoughtful homemade gifts to friends and family.
Pecan Snowball Cookies are not only a delicious addition to any holiday gathering but also a wonderful treat to enjoy throughout the season. The combination of buttery cookie dough and crunchy pecans, all enveloped in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar, creates a flavor and texture that is simply irresistible. These cookies are perfect for sharing the spirit of the holidays with those you love. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start baking a batch of these delightful Pecan Snowball Cookies today!
