If you’ve been searching for a cookie that feels like a cozy hug in every bite, the Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These delicate, buttery cookies dusted generously with powdered sugar melt on your tongue with the perfect balance of nutty almond flavor and a hint of bright orange zest. They’re crisp yet tender and look absolutely enchanting on any cookie platter. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or simply treating yourself, this recipe brings warmth and joy from the first mixing bowl to the last crumb.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe cookies just right comes down to a handful of kitchen staples, each chosen for its role in creating that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture and irresistible flavor. From the rich softness of butter to the fragrant burst of orange zest, every ingredient plays a tasty part.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 lb or 16 Tbsp, softened): Provides the rich, creamy base that makes these cookies so tender and flavorful.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup plus 1 1/2 cups for rolling): Adds sweetness and creates that iconic snowy coating.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the depth of flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups, properly measured): Gives structure to the cookies for that perfect crumbly bite.
- Fine salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Almond flour or fine almond meal (1 cup): Infuses nutty flavor and tender texture, making these cookies unique.
- Orange zest (1/2 Tbsp from 1 medium orange): Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that lifts the whole cookie.
How to Make Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Begin by beating the softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because well-creamed butter and sugar give your cookies that tender yet airy texture that practically dissolves when you bite into them. Once creamy, mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the base with warmth.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, fine salt, and orange zest. The almond flour’s nutty notes combined with the fresh zing of orange zest promise a cookie with layers of flavor. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures an even distribution of taste and texture in each cookie.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. Stir gently until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; the goal is a soft, delicate dough that will form tender cookies without becoming tough.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into small, uniform balls—around 1-inch in diameter—so they bake evenly. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for slight spreading during baking.
Step 5: Bake and Roll in Sugar
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 to 13 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden shade. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the sheet before carefully rolling them in the remaining powdered sugar while still warm. This creates the signature “snowball” effect—a sweet, powdery coating that’s utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While the powdered sugar coating is classic, you can elevate presentation by adding a few extra touches. A light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds adds visual interest and a hint of extra flavor. If serving at a festive occasion, consider adding edible glitter or a small drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant finish.
Side Dishes
Almond Snowball Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and snacks. Serve alongside a cup of rich coffee, a glass of cold milk, or a soothing tea like chamomile or Earl Grey to complement their nutty, buttery flavors. For a luscious touch, these cookies are also delightful with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside fresh berries to balance sweetness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make enjoying this Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe even more special. Arrange the cookies in a decorative tin lined with festive tissue paper for gifting. Create a snowball-inspired dessert platter by mixing them with white chocolate bark, coconut macarons, and snowy meringues. For parties, stack them on tiered cake stands or wrap in clear cellophane with a pretty ribbon for an enticing treat platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keeping your Almond Snowball Cookies fresh is simple. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. The powdered sugar coating might absorb a bit of moisture over time but the cookies will retain their buttery crumble and tender almond taste perfectly.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, they freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep for up to three months. When ready to indulge, just thaw at room temperature—no need for reheating.
Reheating
Generally, these delicate almond snowballs are best enjoyed at room temperature for that classic crumbly texture. However, if you prefer them slightly warm, flash them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for just a few minutes—not too long or they’ll lose their melt-in-your-mouth magic!
FAQs
Can I substitute almond flour with another nut flour?
You can try substituting with hazelnut or pecan flour for a different but delicious flavor twist. Just be mindful the texture might change slightly, as almond flour offers a unique moistness that’s key to these cookies.
Why do my snowball cookies crack during baking?
Cracks are usually natural in these cookies as they are meant to have a tender, crumbly texture. To minimize excessive cracking, avoid overbaking and make sure your dough isn’t too dry before shaping the balls.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as is. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-free diets, but results might differ slightly.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it, tightly wrapped, for up to 24 hours before baking. Chilling the dough can also enhance the flavors and make shaping easier.
How do I keep the powdered sugar coating from melting?
Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm helps the sugar stick. Once cooled completely, store them in a dry, cool place; humidity is the biggest culprit in making powdered sugar dissolve.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe that makes it a must-have in your baking repertoire. Their tender crumble, nutty almond essence, and the joyful snowy sugar coating bring a smile with every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring a quiet moment, these cookies are pure happiness. I can’t wait for you to try making them yourself and experience that perfect little snowball of flavor!
Print
Almond Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 38 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Almond Snowball Cookies are buttery, tender, and perfectly crumbly, rolled in powdered sugar to give them a delicate, sweet finish. Featuring the nutty flavor of almond flour and a hint of fresh orange zest, these cookies are a festive treat ideal for holiday gatherings or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 lb unsalted butter (16 Tbsp), softened at room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (measured correctly)
- 1/2 tsp fine salt (fine sea salt preferred)
- 1 cup almond flour (or fine almond meal)
- 1/2 Tbsp orange zest (from 1 medium orange)
Coating
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar for rolling cookies
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add both the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt, stirring until the dough comes together and no dry flour remains. Finally, fold in the orange zest to evenly distribute the citrus aroma.
- Shape and chill: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, approximately the size of a walnut. Place them spaced apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill the cookie dough balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help maintain their shape during baking.
- Bake the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled dough balls on the prepared baking sheet for 12-13 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain pale.
- Roll in powdered sugar: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes until warm but not hot. Immediately roll each cookie in the 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar until fully coated. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack, then roll again in powdered sugar for a final dusting.
- Serve and store: Once fully cooled and coated, transfer cookies to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Be sure to measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid dense cookies.
- Chilling the dough helps the cookies keep their round shape and prevents spreading during baking.
- Use fresh orange zest for the best citrus flavor without any bitterness.
- Almond flour adds a lovely nuttiness and tenderness but can be substituted with more all-purpose flour for a different texture.
- These cookies are traditionally rolled twice in powdered sugar for maximum snowy effect.
