Schneebälle Snowball Cookies

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by preparing some traditional Austrian Christmas treats. These delightful Schneebälle or Snowball Cookies are a must-have at any cozy gathering during this cheerful time of year. Their buttery, nutty flavor coated in a snowy layer of powdered sugar makes them the perfect sweet indulgence to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace. These cookies are not only delicious but also fun to make, especially with family and friends joining in. So, let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and bring a taste of Austria to your holiday baking!

**Schneebälle Snowball Cookies**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup ground almonds or hazelnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This way, your Schneebälle won’t stick during baking.

2. **Cream the butter and sugar:** In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture for your cookies.

3. **Add the flour and nuts:** Gradually add the all-purpose flour and ground almonds or hazelnuts to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough comes together and forms a cohesive ball. The nuttiness adds a delightful richness to these cookies.

4. **Incorporate the vanilla:** Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough. The hint of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies, making them even more irresistible.

5. **Shape into balls:** Take small portions of the dough and roll them into walnut-sized balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.

6. **Bake to perfection:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 15-18 minutes or until they are set and just starting to turn a light golden brown. Be mindful not to overbake them to maintain their tender texture.

7. **Dust with powdered sugar:** Once the Schneebälle are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. While they are still warm but not hot, roll each cookie in powdered sugar until they are generously coated, resembling little snowballs.

8. **Serve and enjoy:** These delightful Snowball Cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee, perfect for cozy evenings spent with loved ones. They also make a lovely homemade gift if you can resist eating them all yourself!

These Schneebälle Snowball Cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire, bringing a touch of Austrian tradition to your home. The warm, buttery aroma filling your kitchen as these cookies bake is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. So, gather your loved ones, put on some cheerful music, and indulge in the joy of baking and sharing these delightful treats. Happy baking and happy holidays!