These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are a timeless treat that combines a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture with the rich, nutty flavor of pecans. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want a sweet indulgence, these cookies are surprisingly simple to make and bring warmth and joy with every bite.

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure even baking and easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in 2 sticks of butter at room temperature until the mixture is crumbly but starts to come together.

Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 cup of finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed. The dough should be soft yet hold its shape when rolled into balls. Use a teaspoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the dough, then roll each piece into a smooth ball with your hands, placing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for gentle spreading. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale, indicating a tender, crumbly interior.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While still warm, roll each cookie in 1 cup of powdered sugar, coating them completely for that signature snowball appearance. Once fully cooled, give the cookies a second roll in powdered sugar for an extra layer of sweetness and a festive look. These Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies are perfect served with tea, coffee, or milk, and they store well in an airtight container for up to a week, maintaining their soft, nutty charm.