Vegan Snowball Cookies

It's Day 11 of "12 Days of Vegan Christmas Cookies!" It's so sad that this series is almost at it's end but fear not! The deliciousness of these Vegan Snowball Cookies will more than make up for it. Tender, buttery cookies filled with pecans and tossed in powdered sugar. Absolute perfection! Let's learn how to make them!

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Ingredients in Vegan Snowball Cookies

• Vegan Butter (1 cup): Since this is a vegan recipe, traditional butter made from dairy is replaced with a plant-based alternative. Vegan butter helps create a tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture in the cookies.
• Powdered Sugar (¾ cup for the dough + 1 cup for coating): Powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the texture of the cookies, giving them a crumbly and delicate consistency. Coating the cookies in additional powdered sugar after baking adds a sweet finish and a snowy appearance, which is characteristic of snowball cookies.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Vanilla extract is a common flavoring agent in baked goods, and its inclusion in this recipe brings a classic and comforting taste to the cookies. It complements the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Even in sweet recipes, a small amount of salt helps to intensify the flavors and prevents the cookies from being overly cloying. It adds depth and complexity to the taste, highlighting the sweetness and nuttiness of the pecans.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 ¼ cups): Flour is essential for binding the ingredients together and creating the desired cookie texture. It also helps absorb moisture during baking, contributing to the cookies' crumbly and tender nature.
• Chopped Pecans (¾ cup): Pecans are a classic choice for snowball cookies, offering a rich and buttery taste. The nuts not only contribute to the flavor but also provide a delightful crunch, making each bite satisfying and adding a nice contrast to the soft, crumbly texture of the cookies.

Steps to Make Vegan Snowball Cookies (with pictures!)

1. Make Cookie Dough: In a large bowl cream together the vegan butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract and salt using an electric hand mixer. Continue until light and fluffy. This should take about 1 minute. Beat in the flour until just combined. Do not over-mix. Fold in the pecans.
2. Chill: Cover the bowl of cookie dough with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour. Cookie dough can be kept like this for up to 48 hours.
3. Bake: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place heaping tablespoons of cookie dough on the sheet 2 inches apart. Do not flatten! Bake in preheated oven for 12 minutes. 
4. Coat: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Once 5 minutes have passed, toss the cookies in powdered sugar one at a time and place on a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cookies are totally cooled, toss them in powdered sugar once more.

Tips for Making Perfect Vegan Snowball Cookies

1. Choose a Quality Vegan Butter: Select a high-quality vegan butter that has a similar fat content and flavor to traditional butter. This will contribute to the rich and buttery taste of the cookies.
2. Sift the Powdered Sugar: Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the dough. This helps eliminate any lumps and ensures a smooth and consistent sweetness throughout the cookies.
3. Use Pure Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract rather than artificial vanilla flavoring. Pure vanilla extract adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies.
4. Properly Measure the Flour: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure the flour accurately. Too much flour can result in dense cookies, so avoid packing the flour into the measuring cup.
5. Chop Pecans Finely: Chop the pecans finely to ensure even distribution throughout the cookie dough. Finely chopped pecans contribute to the desired texture without overpowering the cookies.
6. Chill the Dough: After mixing the dough, refrigerate it for at least 1 hour or until it's firm. Chilled dough is easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
7. Roll Uniform-sized Balls: When forming the dough into balls, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even baking. This ensures that all the cookies are ready at the same time and have a consistent appearance.
8. Coat with Powdered Sugar Twice: Roll the baked cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm, and then once again once they have cooled. This double coating enhances the snowy appearance and sweetness of the cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any vegan butter for the snowball cookies?

It's recommended to use a high-quality vegan butter with a similar fat content and flavor to traditional butter. Look for one specifically formulated for baking to achieve the desired taste and texture in your snowball cookies.

Can I substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour to make the cookies gluten-free?

While almond flour can be used in some recipes, it might not yield the same texture in snowball cookies. A gluten-free all-purpose flour blend is a better alternative for maintaining the desired structure without compromising the taste.

Can I omit the nuts if I have allergies or prefer nut-free cookies?

Yes, you can omit the nuts if you have allergies or simply prefer a nut-free version. The cookies will still be delicious, but you may want to consider adding a bit more flour to compensate for the loss of volume and texture provided by the nuts.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Chilling the cookie dough before baking is crucial to prevent excessive spreading. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour or until it becomes firm. This helps the cookies hold their shape and ensures a more tender texture.

FAQ's Continued

Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it for later use?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and freeze it for later. Shape the dough into balls before freezing, and when ready to bake, let them thaw slightly before placing them on a baking sheet. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins to the snowball cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with add-ins like vegan chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut. Just be mindful not to overload the dough, as these cookies are typically known for their simplicity and delicate texture.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans are a classic choice, you can experiment with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Ensure they are finely chopped for the best texture, and choose a nut variety that complements your taste preferences.

How do I avoid getting too much powdered sugar everywhere when rolling the cookies?

When rolling the cookies in powdered sugar, you can place the sugar in a shallow bowl and gently roll the cookies, tapping off excess sugar. Another method is to use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the sugar evenly over the cookies. This minimizes mess and ensures a more controlled coating.

How to Serve Vegan Snowball Cookies

Vegan snowball cookies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Here are some suggestions on how to serve and enjoy these delicious cookies:

1. With Hot Beverages: Serve vegan snowball cookies with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. The crumbly texture of the cookies pairs well with the warmth of the drinks, creating a cozy and comforting experience.
2. In a Gift Basket or Tin: Package the cookies in a decorative tin or a gift basket. This makes for a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift during the holiday season or for birthdays. Consider adding a festive ribbon or personalized tag for an extra touch.
3. At a Cookie Exchange: If you're participating in a cookie exchange or potluck, bring a batch of vegan snowball cookies to share. They are easy to transport and are sure to be a hit among those who appreciate a classic, melt-in-your-mouth cookie.
4. With Vegan Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create vegan ice cream sandwiches by sandwiching a scoop of vegan ice cream between two snowball cookies. This transforms the cookies into a delightful frozen treat.
5. Dipped in Vegan Chocolate: Take your snowball cookies to the next level by dipping them in melted vegan chocolate. Allow the chocolate to set before serving. This adds a decadent touch and complements the nutty flavor of the cookies.
6. As a Tea Time Treat: Serve vegan snowball cookies during tea time or as a mid-afternoon snack. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for nibbling alongside a cup of your favorite tea.
7. With Fruit Compote: Serve vegan snowball cookies with a side of fruit compote or fresh berries. The combination of the sweet and slightly tart fruit flavors complements the richness of the cookies.

How to Store Vegan Snowball Cookies

Proper storage is crucial to maintain the freshness and texture of vegan snowball cookies. Here are steps to store them effectively:

1. Allow Cookies to Cool Completely: Before storing, make sure the vegan snowball cookies have cooled completely. This prevents condensation, which can lead to a loss of texture and promote sogginess.
2. Choose an Airtight Container: Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container. This helps to preserve their freshness and prevents them from absorbing odors from the surrounding environment.
3. Avoid Moisture: Moisture is the enemy of snowball cookies, as it can cause them to become too soft or lose their crumbly texture. Ensure the storage container is completely dry before placing the cookies inside.
4. Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep the airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing the cookies in areas with high humidity, as this can affect their texture.
5. Refrigeration or Freezing (Optional): While not always necessary, you can refrigerate or freeze vegan snowball cookies for longer storage. If freezing, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
6. Check and Refresh: Periodically check the stored cookies for any signs of moisture or staleness. If needed, refresh the powdered sugar coating before serving to maintain their appearance.
7. Separate Flavors: If storing different flavored cookies together, make sure to separate them with layers of parchment paper or use different containers to avoid flavor transfer.

If you make this recipe be sure to tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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