Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a timeless classic that are beloved by many. With their rich buttery flavor, nutty pecans, and delicate powdered sugar coating, they are perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

1. Cream Butter and Sugar:

• In a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

1. Add Flavor and Dry Ingredients:

• Mix in the salt, vanilla extract, flour, and finely chopped pecans until well combined. The dough should come together into a soft, slightly sticky mixture.

1. Shape and Bake:

• Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them a few inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 11 minutes, or until the cookies are set and just lightly golden on the bottom. Be careful not to overbake.

1. Coat with Powdered Sugar:

• While the cookies are still warm, but cool enough to handle, gently roll them in powdered sugar until evenly coated. You can do this by placing the powdered sugar in a large Ziploc bag or a wide bowl.
• After the first coating, transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool completely.

1. Double Coating (Optional):

• Once the cookies have cooled completely, roll them again in powdered sugar for an extra snowy appearance and added sweetness.

Tips:

• Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with the powdered sugar.
• Finely chop the pecans to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cookie dough.
• Be careful not to overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added to prevent a tough texture.
• These cookies freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for future enjoyment. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.