Name: Grandma Minecci’s Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus more for rolling); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ¼ cups (270 g) all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup (90 g) finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds); ½ teaspoon almond extract; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Few cookies evoke the same nostalgia and comfort as snowball cookies. Known for their buttery crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are rolled in powdered sugar until they resemble little snowballs. Some call them Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, but to many families, they are simply Grandma’s cookies. This recipe for Grandma Minecci’s Snowball Cookies celebrates tradition, simplicity, and flavor. With only a few pantry staples, you can create a cookie that brings joy to any table, whether at Christmas, a family gathering, or just a cozy afternoon at home.

Contents show

Ingredients (with detailed measurements)

For about 30–36 cookies, you’ll need:

1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups (270 g) all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup (90 g) finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)

Optional flavor additions:

½ teaspoon almond extract for a nutty depth
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon for warmth

Instructions (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Prepare the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, beat softened butter with ½ cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This creates the cookie’s tender crumb. Stir in vanilla extract (and almond extract if using).

Step 3: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk flour and salt together. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low until just combined.

Step 4: Add the nuts

Stir in finely chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The dough will be thick but workable.

Step 5: Shape the cookies

Scoop out small portions of dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale, resembling snowballs.

Step 7: Roll in powdered sugar

Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll them gently in powdered sugar while still warm. Place on a wire rack to finish cooling. Once fully cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for a thicker coating.

Conservation and Storage

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2 minutes to the bake time.
Baked Cookies: Freeze baked and sugar-coated cookies for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar before serving.

Variations

Nut-Free: Replace nuts with mini chocolate chips or toasted coconut.
Festive Flavors: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest or lemon zest for a citrus twist.
Spiced Snowballs: Mix ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg into the flour for holiday warmth.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as part of a holiday cookie platter with gingerbread and biscotti.
Pair with hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for a cozy winter treat.
Package in decorative tins or cellophane bags for homemade gifts.
Use as a sweet finish for brunches, showers, or festive dinners.
Enjoy year-round as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Soften butter properly: It should be soft enough to press but not melted.
Finely chop nuts: Large pieces can make rolling difficult; a food processor works best.
Don’t overbake: The cookies should remain pale—watch for golden bottoms as your cue.
Double coat with sugar: Rolling once warm and once cooled gives the best snowy finish.
Cool before storing: Ensure cookies are fully cooled to prevent moisture buildup in containers.

Conclusion

Grandma Minecci’s Snowball Cookies are more than just sweets—they’re a reminder of family traditions and the joy of simple ingredients. With their buttery texture, delicate crunch from nuts, and sweet powdered sugar coating, these cookies deliver comfort in every bite. Versatile enough for holidays or everyday moments, they adapt easily with different flavors and fillings. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven, gift them to loved ones, or savor them with a hot drink, these snowball cookies will always bring warmth to the table.