Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies are a dreamy delight for anyone who loves a melt-in-your-mouth, buttery treat coated in sweet powdered sugar. With their perfectly tender crumb and irresistible nutty crunch, these nostalgic cookies are a staple on every holiday platter—and for good reason. Whether you grew up calling them Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or simply “Mom’s Special,” there’s something magical about their soft, snowy finish that brings back heartwarming memories with every bite. If you crave a simple yet stunning cookie—one that disappears faster than you can make them—this Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
These Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies require just a handful of pantry staples, each playing an essential role. Every ingredient brings its own personality to this classic, ensuring the cookies have the perfect balance of richness, texture, and that iconic snowy-white look.
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): This is the key to a super tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture—let it come to room temperature before using!
- Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup, plus more for rolling): Adds sweetness and that signature snowy coating—don’t skimp on the dusting at the end!
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): For warm, aromatic flavor—real vanilla makes all the difference.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups): Forms the structure of the cookie while keeping the crumb nice and delicate.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to bring out the buttery flavor—don’t overlook this!
- Finely Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (3/4 cup): Brings classic, nutty crunch—choose your favorite or use a mix for extra depth.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this guarantees that your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Lining the pan also helps the cookies stay lightly colored on the bottom, which is what you want for the classic look of Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy—this will take a few minutes. This step creates that signature tender cookie texture, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Add Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract until it’s fully blended. The vanilla rounds out the sweetness and adds that cozy aroma that will have everyone hovering in the kitchen.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, beating on low until a soft, cohesive dough forms. The dough should be soft, not sticky, and easy to handle—like playdough with a nutty upgrade coming next.
Step 5: Stir in the Nuts
Fold in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Make sure they’re evenly distributed for the perfect nutty crunch in every Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookie.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoonfuls of dough and roll them between your palms to form neat, 1-inch balls. Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. Uniform size ensures they bake evenly and look beautiful when dusted with sugar.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 12-15 minutes, keeping a close eye after the 12-minute mark. You’re looking for just-set cookies with pale tops and only lightly golden bottoms—don’t overbake or the cookies will lose their signature soft texture!
Step 8: Sugar Rolling (Twice!)
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before rolling them (gently!) in powdered sugar while still warm. Once fully cool, roll them again in fresh powdered sugar—that double dusting is key to the trademark snowy effect of Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies!
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, try sprinkling a pinch of edible glitter over your Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies, or garnish your serving plate with a handful of chopped nuts or candied cherries. The gentle white powder is already a showstopper, but a pop of color makes them even more inviting!
Side Dishes
These cookies are dreamy with a mug of hot cocoa, steamy coffee, or a frosty glass of milk. If you’re planning an elegant dessert table, pair them with citrus segments, chocolate truffles, or dainty tea sandwiches for a spread that feels delightfully old-world.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the cookies in a snowy mountain on a vintage cake stand or nestle them in a holiday tin lined with parchment. Tuck them into cellophane bags tied with ribbon for the prettiest homemade gifts. Or arrange them in mini cupcake liners for easy serving at parties—Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies always look as good as they taste!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies irresistibly fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week, and the powdered sugar coating helps the cookies retain their signature texture.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully, making them perfect for advance holiday prep! Freeze the finished cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. When ready to serve, let them thaw and roll in fresh powdered sugar to bring back their snowy charm.
Reheating
No need to reheat Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies—they’re best enjoyed at room temperature, just as they are. If you like, you can give them a quick rest on the counter to take the chill off after refrigeration or freezing before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! Pecans and walnuts are the traditional choices, but almonds, hazelnuts, or even pistachios work wonderfully. Just be sure they’re finely chopped for that classic crumbly bite.
Why did my cookies flatten or spread?
Usually, Snowball Cookies flatten if the butter is too soft or if you skip chilling the dough when your kitchen is warm. Make sure your butter is just softened, not melted, and try chilling the shaped balls for 10-15 minutes before baking for extra insurance.
Is it okay to use salted butter instead?
You can use salted butter in a pinch; just reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe so the cookies don’t end up too salty. The flavor will still be delicious!
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The result is slightly more delicate, but still melt-in-your-mouth and utterly delightful.
Can I make Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies ahead of time?
Yes! These cookies are fabulous make-ahead treats. Bake and store them as directed, or freeze the unbaked balls of dough for holiday baking in a flash. Just add a minute or two to the baking time if baking from frozen.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as joyful as a plateful of Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies shared with friends and family. Their light, nutty flavor and wintry look make them a perennial favorite you’ll want to bake again and again. So gather your ingredients, put on some cheerful music, and let the irresistible aroma of these classic cookies fill your kitchen—you’ll be glad you did!
Print
Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Old-Fashioned Snowball Cookies are classic buttery and nutty cookies rolled in powdered sugar, perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add flour and nuts: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Stir in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Form dough balls: Scoop out tablespoonfuls of dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until bottoms are golden. Let cool for 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while warm. Once cooled, roll in powdered sugar again.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- These cookies freeze well; dust with fresh powdered sugar after thawing if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg