Description
Experience a delicate, buttery crunch with these elegant Pecan Snowballs, featuring the deep aromatic notes of Mexican vanilla and toasted nuts. These double-sugar-coated treats provide a sophisticated melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them an irresistible addition to any dessert tray.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups pecans, finely ground
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dough)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for dough)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons Mexican vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup additional powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Pulse the pecans in a food processor until they reach a coarse, sandy meal consistency, taking care not to over-process them into nut butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1/3 cup granulated sugar on medium-high speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Lower the mixer speed and incorporate the salt and Mexican vanilla extract until fully blended.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour 1/2 cup at a time, mixing on low speed only until the flour streaks disappear.
- Gently fold the ground pecans into the dough until evenly distributed, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes to ensure it is firm enough to handle and retains its shape during baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop and roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet about an inch apart.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the cookies are set and the bottoms are a very light golden brown.
- Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar; once completely cooled, roll them a second time for a thick, snowy coating.
Notes
For the most vibrant flavor, ensure your Mexican vanilla is authentic and fresh, as its unique woody profile is the backbone of this recipe. If your kitchen is warm, work in batches with the dough straight from the fridge to keep the cookies from spreading too much on the hot baking sheet.
- Prep Time: 50 mins
- Cook Time: 18 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American