
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Snowball Cookies with Almonds: A Perfect Holiday Treat
These Snowball Cookies with Almonds are the perfect blend of sweetness and crunch, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with the crunch of almonds, and the dusting of powdered sugar, creates an unforgettable cookie that everyone will love. Whether for the holidays, family gatherings, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies will not disappoint!
Ingredients:
For the Snowball Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for the dough)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds (or any nut of your choice)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (for coating)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract for a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Add Flour and Nuts: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. Fold in the chopped almonds, giving the dough a lovely crunch and flavor.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. These cookies will not spread much, so you can place them closer together.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are lightly golden on the bottom.
Step 4: Coat with Powdered Sugar
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in a bowl of powdered sugar to coat them generously. The sugar will give them a snowy appearance, which is why they’re often called “snowball cookies.”
- Cool: Let the cookies cool completely before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve: Place the cookies on a festive plate, and enjoy them with a warm beverage or as a special snack during the holidays.
- Store: If you have leftovers (though unlikely), store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Helpful Tips:
- Nut Substitutes: You can swap the almonds for walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts if you prefer. The nutty flavor adds a wonderful depth to the cookies.
- For a More Festive Touch: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced variation that complements the holiday season.
- Freezing Dough: You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready, simply bake from frozen for 1-2 extra minutes.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies:
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth: The buttery texture and the lightness of these cookies make them a delicious treat that melts in your mouth with every bite.
- Quick and Easy: These cookies are simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients, making them perfect for last-minute baking.
- Perfect for Gifting: The beautiful snowball appearance and delicious taste make these cookies a wonderful gift for the holidays or any special occasion.
- Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or even chocolate chips to customize the cookies to your liking.
Conclusion:
These Snowball Cookies with Almonds are the epitome of holiday comfort. With their light, delicate texture, and the sweetness of powdered sugar combined with the crunch of almonds, they are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a delicious homemade cookie, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today, and let these melt-in-your-mouth cookies bring a little joy to your day!