Snowball cookies are a holiday favorite for many families, and Land O Lakes Snowball Cookies are a particularly beloved version of this classic treat. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies dusted in powdered sugar look just like tiny snowballs, making them perfect for festive occasions. Their tender texture and nutty flavor make them stand out, and they’re incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re making them for Christmas, a winter gathering, or simply to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, Land O Lakes Snowball Cookies are a simple yet delightful dessert that brings comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
What Are Land O Lakes Snowball Cookies?
Land O Lakes Snowball Cookies are a type of shortbread cookie made with butter, flour, powdered sugar, and chopped nuts. The key ingredient is high-quality butter Land O Lakes butter, in particular known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. These cookies do not contain eggs or baking powder, resulting in a dense, crumbly texture that practically dissolves in your mouth. They’re rolled into small balls before baking and then coated in powdered sugar once they’ve cooled, giving them their snowy appearance.
Why They’re So Popular
There are several reasons why these cookies are so well loved:
- Simple Ingredients: With only a handful of pantry staples, they’re easy to make at home.
- Buttery Texture: The high-quality butter is what makes them truly stand out.
- Customizable: You can swap in your favorite nuts or even add chocolate chips.
- Great for Gifting: Their cute, snowball-like look makes them perfect for holiday cookie boxes.
Ingredients and Variations
The traditional Land O Lakes Snowball Cookies recipe uses:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) Land O Lakes Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
You can make variations of these cookies by trying different add-ins:
- Almonds: Use finely chopped almonds instead of pecans.
- Hazelnuts: Add chopped hazelnuts for a Nutella-like flavor when paired with cocoa powder.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter version, fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and seasonal flair.
How to Make Land O Lakes Snowball Cookies
The process is straightforward, even for novice bakers. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Begin by beating the softened Land O Lakes butter with powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is important for achieving the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2: Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients
Next, mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and mix just until combined. Stir in the chopped nuts, being careful not to overmix the dough.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet. The cookies don’t spread much, so you can place them fairly close together.
Step 4: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake they should not be brown on top.
Step 5: Coat in Powdered Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm. Once they’ve cooled completely, roll them again for that signature snowy coating.
Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
To get the best results, keep the following tips in mind:
- Use Room Temperature Butter: This ensures smooth mixing and a consistent texture.
- Chop Nuts Finely: Large chunks can cause the cookies to break apart.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies are best when just lightly golden on the bottom.
- Double Sugar Coating: The first roll allows the sugar to stick, the second creates the snowy finish.
Storage and Shelf Life
Land O Lakes Snowball Cookies store well, making them a great make-ahead treat. Once the cookies are completely cooled and coated in sugar, place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to one week at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to add an extra dusting of powdered sugar after thawing, as some of it may absorb during freezing.
Serving Ideas
These cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few ways to serve them for added fun:
- Pair with a warm mug of hot chocolate or coffee.
- Arrange on a holiday dessert tray alongside gingerbread cookies and peppermint bark.
- Wrap a dozen in a festive box or tin for holiday gifts.
- Crush and sprinkle over vanilla ice cream for a crunchy topping.
Why Choose Land O Lakes Butter?
The quality of butter used in snowball cookies makes a huge difference. Land O Lakes butter is known for its consistent texture and rich flavor, making it a top choice for baking. It helps give the cookies their signature crumb and enhances the overall taste. When baking something as simple as snowball cookies, using a trusted, high-quality butter like Land O Lakes truly pays off.
Holiday Tradition and Family Fun
Many families make Land O Lakes Snowball Cookies part of their holiday traditions. Kids love helping roll the dough into balls and covering them in sugar. The cookies are also perfect for cookie swaps, family gatherings, or quiet evenings by the fireplace. Their nostalgic flavor brings a sense of comfort, making them a timeless addition to any celebration.
Land O Lakes Snowball Cookies are a classic cookie that never goes out of style. With their delicate texture, buttery flavor, and powdered sugar coating, they’re both beautiful and delicious. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these cookies are a perfect addition to your baking list, especially during the holiday season. Whether you’re enjoying them with loved ones or giving them as a thoughtful gift, they’re sure to bring joy with every bite.