Budget-Friendly Snowball Cookies

Featured in: Noonshine Plates

These budget-friendly snowball delights blend softened butter, vanilla, and flour with finely chopped nuts for a tender, crumbly texture. Baked until lightly golden underneath, each piece is rolled in powdered sugar twice for a snowy coating. Simple steps and common pantry ingredients make these sweet bites perfect for any occasion, with optional variations like nut-free versions or warming spices. Enjoy them alongside your favorite hot beverage for a cozy treat.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:56:00 GMT
Golden, buttery Budget-Friendly Snowball Cookies, ready to enjoy with a warm cup of coffee and friends. Save It
Golden, buttery Budget-Friendly Snowball Cookies, ready to enjoy with a warm cup of coffee and friends. | sunnyspoonful.com

Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies rolled in powdered sugar, perfect for the holidays or any sweet craving made with simple inexpensive pantry staples.

These snowball cookies have been a family favorite during the holidays for years and always bring smiles.

Ingredients

  • Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Butter & Sugar: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus extra for coating), 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Nuts (optional but traditional): 3/4 cup (75 g) finely chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 3:
Stir in the flour and salt until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts if using. The dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Step 4:
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Place the balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5:
Bake for 13 15 minutes or until the bottoms are just lightly golden (cookies should remain pale on top).
Step 6:
Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes then roll them gently in powdered sugar while still warm. Cool completely on a wire rack then roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
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Gathering around the table with family to enjoy these cookies has created many cherished moments.

Notes

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Pair well with coffee tea or hot chocolate.

Required Tools

Mixing bowls Electric mixer or sturdy spoon Baking sheet Parchment paper Wire rack Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (gluten) dairy (butter) tree nuts (if added). Omit nuts for nut free version Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.

A close-up of powdered sugar covered Budget-Friendly Snowball Cookies, perfect for holiday baking at home. Save It
A close-up of powdered sugar covered Budget-Friendly Snowball Cookies, perfect for holiday baking at home. | sunnyspoonful.com

These simple snowball cookies will become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire year round.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these without nuts?

Yes, simply omit the nuts for a nut-free version without altering the taste or texture significantly.

What is the best flour to use?

All-purpose flour provides the ideal texture, balancing tenderness and structure perfectly.

Why roll the dough balls in powdered sugar twice?

Rolling twice ensures a thick, snowy coating that enhances sweetness and creates the classic look.

Can margarine replace butter in this treat?

Yes, margarine can be used for a more budget-friendly option, though the flavor may be slightly different.

How should I store these sweet bites?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them tender and fresh for several days.

Budget-Friendly Snowball Cookies

Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth snowball treats rolled in powdered sugar using affordable pantry staples.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Duration
30 mins
Authored by Lana Bright

Recipe Type Noonshine Plates

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Style American

Recipe Yield 24 Serving Size

Diet Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Need

Dry Ingredients

01 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 1/4 teaspoon salt

Butter & Sugar

01 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for coating
03 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nuts (optional)

01 3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans

Directions

Step 01

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Set oven temperature to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.

Step 03

Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Nuts: Add flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring gently until combined. Fold in chopped nuts if using, ensuring dough holds together despite slight crumbliness.

Step 04

Shape Cookies: Portion dough into tablespoon-sized balls and arrange them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 05

Bake: Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden while tops remain pale.

Step 06

Coat with Powdered Sugar: After cooling cookies for 5 minutes, roll them gently in powdered sugar. Once fully cooled on a wire rack, roll them again for a snowy finish.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or sturdy spoon
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire rack
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Review each ingredient to identify potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains gluten, dairy, and tree nuts if added; nuts can be omitted for nut-free version.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

This nutritional data is for reference only and isn't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Caloric Value: 110
  • Fats: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 11 grams
  • Proteins: 1 grams