Have you ever wanted to bring a taste of the winter wonderland indoors during the holiday season? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Snøballkaker, also known as Snowball Cookies in English. These delicate, buttery cookies are a staple in Norwegian Christmas baking, with their snowy appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea, these cookies are a delightful addition to any festive gathering.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
– Additional powdered sugar for rolling
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well to combine.
4. Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. Gently fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Using your hands, shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until set but not browned.
8. Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once the cookies have cooled, gently roll them in additional powdered sugar until coated, resembling the snowballs they are named after.
10. Serve these delightful Snøballkaker cookies on a festive platter and watch them disappear as quickly as snowflakes in the winter breeze!
These Snowball Cookies are not only delicious but also a beautiful addition to any Christmas cookie platter. Their simplicity and elegance make them a perfect treat for holiday gatherings or as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. So, put on some festive music, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of these delightful cookies fill your home with the joy of the holiday season. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious Snøballkaker with your loved ones!