Melt-in-your-mouth Almond Snowball Cookies

Almond Snowball Cookies have been a cherished part of my holiday traditions for as long as I can remember. The moment I smell that sweet, nutty aroma filling my kitchen, I’m instantly transported back to my grandmother’s cozy house, watching her expertly roll these delicate treats. These easy almond snowball cookies are so simple to whip up, making them perfect for busy bakers like me. I’ve perfected this homemade almond snowball cookies recipe over the years, and I can’t wait to share the magic with you. Get ready for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s pure holiday joy. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Almond Snowball Cookie Recipe

These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a little bite of heaven! You’ll adore these best almond snowball cookies for so many reasons:

• Incredible Taste: A perfect balance of buttery richness and sweet almond flavor that melts in your mouth.
• Super Quick Prep: Ready to bake in just 15 minutes – ideal for when holiday baking time is tight!
• Budget-Friendly Bliss: Uses simple pantry staples, making them an economical choice for festive treats.
• Family Fun: Rolling the dough and dusting with sugar is a fantastic activity for kids of all ages.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone raves about these cookies; they’re often called the best almond snowball cookies for a reason.
• Festive Appeal: Their snowy coating makes them look stunning on any holiday cookie platter.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, gifting, or just enjoying with a warm cup of tea.

Almond Snowball Cookie Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first delicious step to making these delightful Almond Snowball Cookies. I’ve found that using good quality ingredients really makes a difference in the final taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple almond snowball cookie recipe:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – This is key for that melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar – For sweetness and to help create that signature tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract – This is where the magic happens, giving our cookies that distinct nutty essence.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our cookies, providing structure.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds – These little gems add a wonderful crunch and intensify the almond flavor. If you’re going for an almond powder snowball cookies vibe, ensure your nuts are ground very fine.
• Additional powdered sugar, for rolling – This is for that beautiful snowy finish that defines snowball cookies.

How to Make Almond Snowball Cookies

Ready to create these delightful little treats? Following these steps will ensure your Almond Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly tender and wonderfully nutty. This easy almond snowball cookie recipe is straightforward, even for beginners!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or leave it ungreased, as specified in many authentic recipes.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar using an electric mixer. Beat them on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Step 3: Beat in the 1 teaspoon almond extract until it’s evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
4. Step 4: Gradually add the 2 cups all-purpose flour to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed or by hand until the dough is just combined. It’s really important not to overmix at this stage; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
5. Step 5: Gently stir in the 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for that delightful crunch in every bite.
6. Step 6: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1-inch in size. Aim for consistent sizing so they bake evenly.
7. Step 7: Place the dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
8. Step 8: Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They won’t spread much, so watch them closely.
9. Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Step 10: Once the cookies are completely cool, generously roll each one in additional powdered sugar until they are completely coated, giving them their signature snowball look. This is a crucial step in how to make almond snowball cookies truly special.

Pro Tips for the Best Almond Snowball Cookies

To ensure your cookies are absolutely perfect every time, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. These tips will help you achieve that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture and delightful flavor.

• Don’t overwork the dough after adding the flour; mix just until combined for the most tender cookies.
• Ensure your butter is properly softened, not melted, for the best creaming action and texture.
• Chop your almonds very finely, almost to a powder, if you want a smoother cookie with just a hint of crunch, leaning into an almond powder snowball cookies profile.
• Bake just until the edges are *lightly* golden; they will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

What’s the secret to perfect Almond Snowball Cookies?

The biggest secret is not overmixing the dough once the flour is added. This keeps the cookies tender and delicate. For that rich flavor, using high-quality butter almond snowball cookies ingredients really makes a difference. For more baking tips, check out our latest recipes.

Can I make Almond Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the almond snowball cookie dough up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just let it soften slightly before rolling and baking.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Almond Snowball Cookies?

A common pitfall is overbaking, which can lead to dry cookies. Watch them closely and remove them when the edges are just barely golden. Also, make sure the cookies are completely cool before rolling in powdered sugar, or they’ll melt. For more information on baking best practices, you can refer to our baking guides.

Best Ways to Serve Almond Snowball Cookies

These delicate Almond Snowball Cookies are perfect for so many occasions, especially during the festive season. Their sweet, nutty flavor and beautiful snowy coating make them a standout treat. They pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or a soothing cup of tea, making them ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up.

For holiday gatherings, these cookies are a must-have on any cookie platter. Their elegant appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture are sure to impress your guests. Consider serving them alongside other classic holiday treats for a truly festive spread. These almond snowball cookies for holidays are always a hit!

Nutrition Facts for Almond Snowball Cookies

These delightful Almond Snowball Cookies are a treat to savor, and knowing their nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy them mindfully. Each cookie offers a lovely balance of sweetness and richness. For more details on nutritional information, please see our privacy policy.

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: Approximately 120
• Fat: Approximately 7g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 4g
• Protein: Approximately 1g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 13g
• Fiber: Approximately 0.5g
• Sugar: Approximately 6g
• Sodium: Approximately 15mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you opt for variations like gluten-free almond snowball cookies or vegan almond snowball cookies. For information on data handling, please review our GDPR policies.

How to Store and Reheat Almond Snowball Cookies

Proper storage is key to keeping your homemade Almond Snowball Cookies delightfully fresh and that signature snowy coating intact. Once your cookies have completely cooled on the wire rack, it’s time to store them. I find that an airtight container is your best friend here. If you’re wondering how long these treats last, they stay wonderfully tender at room temperature for about 5 to 7 days. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers if you stack them to prevent the delicate powdered sugar coating from sticking.

For longer storage, freezing is a fantastic option! You can freeze the baked and cooled almond snowball cookies with powdered sugar for up to 3 months. Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Reheating isn’t usually necessary, as they are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you prefer them slightly warm, a few seconds in a low-heat oven (around 200°F or 95°C) can do the trick, though be mindful of the powdered sugar. For any questions regarding our storage recommendations, feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Almond Snowball Cookies

What are almond snowball cookies?

Almond snowball cookies are delicate, buttery shortbread-like cookies that are rolled into balls and baked until lightly golden. They are then generously coated in powdered sugar, giving them a snowy appearance reminiscent of snowballs. The signature flavor comes from almond extract and finely chopped almonds, making them a nutty, melt-in-your-mouth delight.

How do almond snowball cookies differ from Mexican Wedding Cookies?

While very similar, Almond snowball cookies vs Mexican wedding cookies often comes down to one key ingredient: almonds! Traditional Mexican wedding cookies typically use walnuts or pecans, or sometimes no nuts at all, relying solely on butter and vanilla. Our almond snowball cookies specifically feature almond extract and finely chopped almonds for a distinct nutty flavor profile that many adore. For more information on cookie variations, you can explore our homepage.

Can I make gluten-free almond snowball cookies?

Yes, absolutely! You can easily make gluten-free almond snowball cookies by substituting a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add about 1/2 teaspoon. The texture might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious and wonderfully nutty!

Are almond snowball cookies good for gifting?

They are absolutely perfect for gifting! Their beautiful snowy appearance makes them festive for holidays, and their melt-in-your-mouth texture is universally loved. Pack them in tins or decorative boxes, perhaps with a layer of parchment paper between them to protect the powdered sugar coating, and they make a charming homemade present.

Variations of Almond Snowball Cookies You Can Try

While the classic Almond Snowball Cookies are incredibly delicious on their own, there are so many fun ways to customize this recipe! Exploring different almond snowball cookie variations can cater to various dietary needs and flavor preferences. Here are a few ideas to get your creative baking juices flowing:

• Dietary Adaptations: For those with dietary restrictions, you’ll be happy to know you can make fantastic gluten-free almond snowball cookies by swapping in a quality gluten-free flour blend. Similarly, creating vegan almond snowball cookies is achievable by using vegan butter alternatives and a flax egg or commercial egg replacer.
• Flavor Boosts: Want to mix things up? Try adding other complementary nuts like in almond pecan snowball cookies for a deeper, richer crunch. You could also experiment with a touch of orange zest or a different extract for a unique twist.
• Texture Tweaks: While these are meant to be tender, you can slightly adjust baking times for a crispier cookie, or ensure you use very finely ground nuts for an even smoother, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Melt-in-your-mouth Almond Snowball Cookies

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

Melt-in-your-mouth Almond Snowball Cookies are an easy holiday treat. These delicate, nutty cookies are quick to prepare and have a signature snowy coating of powdered sugar. They are perfect for baking, gifting, and enjoying with loved ones.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
• Additional powdered sugar, for rolling

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the almond extract until evenly distributed.
3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Gently stir in the finely chopped almonds.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in size.
6. Place the dough balls onto an ungreased baking sheet.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once completely cool, generously roll each cookie in additional powdered sugar until coated.

Notes

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days.
• Use parchment paper between layers if stacking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: Approximately 120
• Sugar: Approximately 6g
• Sodium: Approximately 15mg
• Fat: Approximately 7g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 13g
• Fiber: Approximately 0.5g
• Protein: Approximately 1g
• Cholesterol: Approximately 20mg

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