Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs

Oh my gosh, you know that treat that just melts in your mouth? Yeah… these Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs do exactly that. And wait till you smell them baking.

I make them all the time because they’re so easy. Like, mix, roll, bake… done. And the cinnamon? It just feels warm and cozy.

I love how the pecans give a soft little crunch. And the sugar coating? It’s like tiny snow on each bite. So yeah… you’ll want a whole plate.

So hey, let’s make them together. It’s super simple. And you’re gonna be so happy you tried these.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs are an absolute delight for several reasons:

• Melt-In-Your-Mouth Texture: These cookies are incredibly light and tender. The perfect balance of butter and flour gives them a soft, delicate crumb.
• Nutty & Warm: The addition of finely chopped pecans and cinnamon creates an irresistible, slightly spiced flavor that brings warmth to every bite.
• Quick & Easy: These cookies are so simple to make, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time, and only 15 minutes in the oven!
• Perfect for Gifting: Pack them up in a festive tin or cellophane bag, and you have a delicious homemade gift perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making them perfect for busy schedules.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we start, here’s a list of essential tools that will make baking Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs a breeze:

• Mixing Bowls: To combine the ingredients for the dough.
• Electric Mixer (Hand or Stand Mixer): While you can mix by hand, an electric mixer makes it easier to achieve the right texture for the dough.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, so be sure to have these on hand.
• Baking Sheets: Line your sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
• Cooling Rack: After baking, a cooling rack will allow your cookies to cool down evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

These simple ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Below is the ingredient list with the exact measurements, which you can find in the recipe card at the end:

• Unsalted Butter (1 cup): The butter gives the cookies their rich, creamy texture and helps them hold their shape. Make sure it is softened before you begin for easier mixing.
• Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup): This sugar dissolves easily into the dough, giving the cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. It also adds a sweet touch without making the dough too heavy.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Vanilla adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): Cinnamon is the perfect spice to complement the pecans and bring a cozy, aromatic flavor to the cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): The flour provides the structure needed to hold the cookies together. It ensures they bake up perfectly soft, not too crumbly.
• Pecans, Finely Chopped (1 cup): Pecans add a nutty crunch and a deep, roasted flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. Be sure to chop them finely to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A small amount of salt helps to balance out the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Additional Powdered Sugar (for coating): After baking, the cookies are coated in powdered sugar, giving them their “snowball” appearance and adding extra sweetness.

Variations for Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs

While the original recipe is a hit, there are plenty of ways to make these cookies your own:

• Add Chocolate Chips: If you love chocolate, add in a handful of mini chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Try Other Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives. These nuts have a similar texture and flavor profile.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
• Infuse With Orange: Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cardamom for a more complex spice blend. Nutmeg especially enhances the warmth of cinnamon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients and tools, it’s time to get baking. Follow these easy instructions for Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs that will wow your friends, family, or just yourself!

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This process will incorporate air into the mixture, giving the cookies their delicate texture. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.

2. Add Vanilla and Cinnamon

Next, mix in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. The cinnamon will infuse the butter mixture with its warm, comforting aroma. Beat until fully combined.

3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed, or use a spatula to fold the ingredients together. It’s important not to overmix here, as this could lead to dense cookies. Only mix until everything is just combined.

4. Add the Pecans

Fold in the finely chopped pecans. The pecans should be evenly distributed throughout the dough, giving each cookie a nutty crunch in every bite.

5. Form the Dough

Once the dough is ready, use your hands to roll it into small, 1-inch balls. You should be able to make about 24 cookies from this recipe. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one to allow for slight spreading.

6. Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Once the oven is heated, bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly soft, but don’t worry—they’ll firm up as they cool.

7. Coat in Powdered Sugar

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. While they are still warm, roll the cookies in additional powdered sugar to give them the signature “snowball” appearance.

8. Cool and Serve

Once the cookies are completely coated, let them cool completely on a wire rack. These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they will keep well in an airtight container for up to a week.

How to Serve Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs

Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs are versatile enough to serve at almost any occasion:

• Holiday Gatherings: They’re perfect for Christmas or any holiday celebration. The snowball shape makes them look festive, and they taste incredible alongside other holiday treats.
• With Coffee or Tea: These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot beverage. The sweet, nutty flavor is enhanced by the warmth of coffee or tea.
• Gift Them: Pack a dozen in a decorative tin or gift bag for a thoughtful homemade present.
• As a Snack: These cookies are great for an afternoon treat or a sweet snack to satisfy your cravings.

Storing Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs

Proper storage is key to keeping your cookies fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They will stay soft and delicious.
• Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Freezing the Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough. Roll it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a container or bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as usual. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutrition Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for each Cinnamon Pecan Snowball cookie:

Nutrient	Amount Per Cookie
Calories	120 kcal
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	20mg
Sodium	30mg
Total Carbohydrates	15g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	7g
Protein	1g

Conclusion

Cinnamon Pecan Snowballs are a true indulgence. Their nutty, cinnamon-spiced flavor, combined with their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, gifting a homemade present, or simply indulging in a delicious snack, these cookies will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later—you won’t be able to resist these sweet, nutty bites of heaven!