Name: Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes / Mexican Wedding Cookies)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for coating); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts

Jump to Recipe

Delicate, buttery cookies rolled in powdered sugar, often enjoyed during the holidays or with tea and coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These snowball cookies are rich, tender, and melt in your mouth. Coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar, they have a festive appearance and a nutty flavor that makes them a timeless favorite for cookie exchanges, tea time, or everyday snacking.

ingredients

all‑purpose flour
unsalted butter
powdered sugar (for dough and coating)
vanilla extract
salt
finely chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, cream the butter and half of the powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Gradually add flour, salt, and chopped nuts, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shape the dough into 1‑inch balls and place them on the prepared sheet.
Bake 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Let cool slightly, then roll cookies in powdered sugar while still warm.
Once completely cool, roll again in powdered sugar for a finished coating.

Servings and timing

Serves: ~36 cookies
Preparation: 20 minutes
Baking: 12–15 minutes per batch
Cooling and coating: 15–20 minutes
Total: ~1 hour

Variations

• Citrus‑kissed: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright twist.
• Chocolate‑dusted: Dust with cocoa powder alongside powdered sugar.
• Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for warmth.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They do not require reheating and are best enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

Are snowball cookies the same as Mexican wedding cookies?

Yes, they are essentially the same style of buttery, powdered sugar–coated cookie with regional name variations.

Can I use different nuts?

Yes — pecans, walnuts, or almonds all work well.

Why roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?

The second roll creates a fuller, more attractive coating that clings better.

Can I make these gluten‑free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten‑free flour blend.

Why are my cookies crumbly?

Too much flour or under‑creaming the butter can make them dry; measure carefully.

Do these cookies melt in your mouth?

Yes — the combination of butter and sugar yields a tender, melt‑in‑your‑mouth texture.

Should the nuts be toasted?

Toasting enhances flavour but is optional.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, shape into balls and freeze on a sheet, then store in a bag; bake from frozen with a bit of extra time.

Are these suitable for holidays?

Absolutely — their snowy appearance makes them a holiday favorite.

What beverage pairs well?

Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, or milk complement these cookies beautifully.

Conclusion

Snowball cookies are a classic, buttery confection with a delicate texture and irresistible powdered sugar coating, perfect for festive occasions or everyday indulgence.