Pistachio Snowball Cookies
Pistachio Snowball Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, combining the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture of a classic snowball with the rich, nutty flavor of finely ground pistachios. These cookies are dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a festive, snow-dusted appearance that’s perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. Simple to make and absolutely delicious, they’re a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a gift exchange, or simply to enjoy at home, these cookies are sure to impress!
Ingredients
To make these delightful Pistachio Snowball Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely ground pistachios
- ¼ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of Pistachio Snowball Cookies:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking. - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light, smooth, and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. - Add the Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined, enhancing the buttery flavor of the dough. - Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour, finely ground pistachios, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. - Form the Cookies
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them slightly apart to allow for even baking. - Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale to maintain their soft texture. - Coat with Powdered Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while they are still warm. This initial dusting ensures the sugar adheres well. - Add a Second Dusting
Once the cookies have completely cooled, give them a second coat of powdered sugar for an extra sweet, snowy appearance.
Tips and Techniques: Perfecting Pistachio Snowball Cookies
- Chilling the Dough: If your kitchen is warm, consider chilling the dough for about 15 minutes before rolling it into balls. This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Grinding the Pistachios: For best results, grind the pistachios into a fine meal using a food processor. Be careful not to over-process, as you don’t want to turn them into pistachio butter.
- Variations: Add a hint of citrus by mixing in a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright flavor twist. You can also swap out the pistachios for other nuts like almonds or pecans.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze well—just be sure to dust them with powdered sugar after they thaw for the best appearance.
A Must-Try Holiday Treat
Pistachio Snowball Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday spread or special occasion. With their nutty flavor, buttery texture, and snowy appearance, they are as festive as they are delicious. Easy to make and full of flavor, these cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends or gifting during the holiday season. Their melt-in-your-mouth quality, combined with the crunch of pistachios, makes them a standout treat that you’ll want to bake again and again. Enjoy the magic of these cookies and bring a touch of sweetness to your celebrations!
