Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for the holidays: These cookies add a festive touch to your dessert table.
• Quick and easy to make: Simple steps and basic ingredients make these cookies a breeze to prepare.
• Customizable: The recipe allows for the addition of nuts or a double coating of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Buttery and tender, these cookies are a joy to eat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Make the Cookie Dough

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
• Mix in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the flour, salt, and ground cinnamon, mixing until a soft dough forms.
• If desired, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts.

2. Shape the Cookies

• Scoop and roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
• Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between them.

3. Bake the Cookies

• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

4. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

• Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
• While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the nuts for a plain, buttery snowball cookie.
• Extra Coating: Roll the cookies in cinnamon sugar a second time once cooled for added sweetness.
• Different Spices: Substitute cinnamon with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze uncoated cookies in a single layer for up to 3 months. Thaw completely and coat in cinnamon sugar before serving.
• Reheating: Serve at room temperature; reheating is not required.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

2. Can I freeze the dough instead of baked cookies?

Absolutely! Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag.

3. What other nuts can I use?

Almonds or hazelnuts are great alternatives to pecans or walnuts.

4. How can I make the cookies extra soft?

Be careful not to overbake them; remove them from the oven as soon as the bottoms turn golden.

5. Can I use salted butter instead?

Yes, but reduce the added salt to a pinch.

6. Are these cookies similar to Mexican wedding cookies?

Yes, they are quite similar, but the cinnamon sugar coating gives them a unique twist.

7. Can I add chocolate chips?

You can! Mini chocolate chips work well in this recipe.

8. What if my dough is too crumbly?

Add a teaspoon of milk or water until the dough comes together.

9. Can I substitute granulated sugar with powdered sugar for the coating?

Yes, but the texture will be smoother and less crunchy.

10. Do these cookies stay fresh for long?

They stay fresh for about a week in an airtight container, making them perfect for gifting.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Snowball Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat! With their buttery texture, warm cinnamon flavor, and optional nutty crunch, they’re bound to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or pack them as gifts, these cookies are a delightful addition to any occasion. Try them today and make your holiday season even sweeter!