Description
Delight in these classic Pecan Cookie Balls, buttery, tender cookies generously studded with finely chopped pecans and coated in a sweet powdered sugar shell. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you crave a melt-in-your-mouth treat with a nutty crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined, which creates the perfect base for tender cookies.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with a warm, sweet aroma and flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms without overworking it.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold the finely chopped pecans into the dough so they’re evenly distributed, adding their signature crunch and nutty taste.
- Shape Dough Balls: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough and roll them into small, uniform balls to ensure even baking.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the cookie balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes or until the bottoms turn lightly golden while the tops remain pale, ensuring a delicate texture.
- First Sugar Coating: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar to create the first sweet coating.
- Final Sugar Coating: Once the cookies have fully cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar to achieve a thick, snowy outer layer typical of classic pecan cookie balls.
- Storage: Store these cookie balls in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy for several days.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and adding them to the dough.
- These cookies freeze exceptionally well; prepare ahead for holidays or special occasions by freezing the baked cookie balls in an airtight container.
