When it comes to holiday baking, few treats are as delightful as Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, infused with the refreshing essence of peppermint and the rich crunch of toasted pecans, are the perfect festive snack. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or looking for a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of tea, these snowball cookies are sure to be a hit. This detailed guide will walk you through every step of making these delicious cookies, from gathering the ingredients to putting the final snowy touch on your creation.
What Are Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies?
Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies are a variation of the classic snowball cookie, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes. These cookies are made from a buttery dough mixed with finely chopped pecans and crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. After baking, the cookies are dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a snowy appearance. The result is a delightful combination of sweet, nutty, and minty flavors, perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to enjoy a festive treat.
The Origin of Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies
The origins of snowball cookies can be traced back to various cultures, where they are often referred to by different names, such as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes. These cookies have been a part of holiday traditions in many countries, often served at weddings and other celebrations.
The peppermint twist added to this recipe gives it a modern spin, combining the nostalgic flavors of classic snowball cookies with the cool, refreshing taste of peppermint. Peppermint and pecans are two ingredients that are commonly associated with holiday baking, and their combination in this recipe makes for a delightful, seasonal treat.
Ingredients for Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies
To make these cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients. These quantities will yield around 24 cookies, depending on the size of each cookie ball.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Step-by-Step Instructions for Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies
Follow these detailed steps to make your Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies. The process is straightforward and enjoyable, making it a great activity for both seasoned bakers and beginners.
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The texture of the mixture is important because it creates the base for your dough.
- Add extracts: Once your butter and sugar are well-creamed, add the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Mix until fully incorporated. The peppermint extract will give the cookies their signature refreshing taste.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir until the dough comes together. It will be crumbly at first, but keep mixing until it forms a smooth dough.
- Incorporate pecans and crushed peppermint: Once your dough is prepared, fold in the finely chopped pecans and crushed peppermint candies. The nuts add a delightful crunch, while the peppermint adds a burst of festive flavor.
- Shape the dough: Using your hands, take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place each cookie ball on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart to allow for even baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. The cookies should not brown on top, but the bottoms should turn just lightly golden. This ensures that the cookies stay soft and melt-in-your-mouth.
- Cool and dust with powdered sugar: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, gently roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. Let the cookies cool completely, then roll them in powdered sugar once more for an extra snowy finish.
Tips for the Perfect Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies
- Peppermint flavor adjustment: If you prefer a softer peppermint flavor, consider using fewer crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. You can also add a little more peppermint extract for a stronger flavor.
- Toasting pecans: For an added depth of flavor, you can toast the pecans before chopping them. Simply place them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Let them cool before chopping and adding them to the dough.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the cookies. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze them until firm, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container for long-term storage.
Customization Ideas
- Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free version of these cookies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well, such as the powdered sugar and extracts.
- Nut-Free Option: If you want to make this recipe nut-free, you can replace the pecans with crispy rice cereal for a similar crunch without the nuts. This makes the cookies a great option for those with nut allergies.
- Vegan Version: To make these cookies vegan, substitute the unsalted butter with plant-based butter. Also, make sure that the powdered sugar you use is vegan-certified, as some sugar brands use bone char in the refining process.
Nutritional Information for Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies (per cookie, based on 24 cookies)
- Calories: ~120
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 12g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 0.5g
This nutritional information can vary slightly based on the ingredients used and the size of your cookies. However, these values should give you a good idea of the general nutritional profile of the cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. This will help the flavors meld together, and the dough will be easier to handle when shaping the cookies.
2. Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, if you prefer a different type of nut, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just be sure to chop them finely so they mix well into the dough.
3. Can I use store-bought peppermint extract instead of candy canes?
Yes, you can replace the crushed candy canes with an additional 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract if you prefer a more intense peppermint flavor. You can also experiment with using peppermint oil, but use it sparingly as it is much more concentrated.
4. How should I store these cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Just be sure to layer them between sheets of wax paper to prevent sticking.
5. Can I make these cookies without powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar is what gives snowball cookies their signature snowy finish, but you can use regular granulated sugar if necessary. However, the texture and look of the cookies will be slightly different.
Conclusion:
Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies are a festive and flavorful treat that are perfect for any holiday occasion. Their combination of buttery goodness, crunchy pecans, and refreshing peppermint makes them a crowd favorite. By following the step-by-step instructions, you can easily create these delicious cookies in your own kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a special event or simply to enjoy with your family, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to anyone who tastes them. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy one of the most delightful holiday treats around!
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Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies Recipe: A Festive Treat for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies are a variation of the classic snowball cookie, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes. These cookies are made from a buttery dough mixed with finely chopped pecans and crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. After baking, the cookies are dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a snowy appearance. The result is a delightful combination of sweet, nutty, and minty flavors, perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to enjoy a festive treat.
Ingredients
-
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
-
1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
-
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
-
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
-
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
-
1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
-
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The texture of the mixture is important because it creates the base for your dough.
-
Add extracts: Once your butter and sugar are well-creamed, add the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Mix until fully incorporated. The peppermint extract will give the cookies their signature refreshing taste.
-
Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir until the dough comes together. It will be crumbly at first, but keep mixing until it forms a smooth dough.
-
Incorporate pecans and crushed peppermint: Once your dough is prepared, fold in the finely chopped pecans and crushed peppermint candies. The nuts add a delightful crunch, while the peppermint adds a burst of festive flavor.
-
Shape the dough: Using your hands, take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place each cookie ball on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart to allow for even baking.
-
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. The cookies should not brown on top, but the bottoms should turn just lightly golden. This ensures that the cookies stay soft and melt-in-your-mouth.
-
Cool and dust with powdered sugar: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, gently roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. Let the cookies cool completely, then roll them in powdered sugar once more for an extra snowy finish.
Notes
These cookies store beautifully in an airtight container for up to a week—if they last that long! For an extra festive touch, roll them in powdered sugar a second time just before serving. Perfect for gifting or nibbling with a hot cup of cocoa!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Peppermint Pecan Snowball Cookies