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Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies

 

 

Ingredient Substitutions

Ingredient Substitute Notes
Pecans Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts Toast for best flavor
All-purpose flour Gluten-free 1:1 blend Add ½ tsp xanthan gum if not included
Butter Margarine or plant-based stick butter Choose same fat content for texture
Vanilla extract Almond extract (½ tsp) Enhances nuttiness; use sparingly
Powdered sugar DIY: Blend 1 cup granulated sugar with 1 tbsp cornstarch Smooths texture

Serving Suggestions

Cultural Context

Known around the world as Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, or simply Snowballs, these cookies have roots in European and Latin American baking traditions. Brought to the U.S. through immigrant kitchens, they became holiday icons thanks to their simplicity, elegance, and ability to keep well.

Often passed down in handwritten recipe cards, these cookies are more than just treats—they’re acts of generosity, reminders of home, and small, sweet traditions made with care.

Pro Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pre-chopped pecans?
A: Yes, but toast them first. Pre-chopped nuts often sit on shelves and lose flavor.

Q: Why did my cookies flatten?
A: Likely from overcreaming the butter or using warm dough. Chill briefly if your kitchen is hot.

Q: Can I make them ahead?
A: Absolutely! They taste better the next day. Store for 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Q: Are they gluten-free?
A: Only if using a certified gluten-free flour blend. Always check ingredient labels.

Q: Can I add spices or flavors?
A: Yes! Try ¼ tsp cinnamon or ½ tsp instant espresso powder for depth.

Allergy Information

Note: Always read labels, especially for powdered sugar—some contain cornstarch or additives.

Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie – Approximate)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on brand and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice.

Final Thought

These cookies don’t shout. They sit quietly in a jar, dusted in white, waiting to be discovered. One bite—crisp, nutty, sweet—and you’re reminded: the best things aren’t flashy. They’re simple, made with care, and shared without hesitation.

That’s how memories are baked.

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