A sprinkle of powdered sugar transforms an ordinary cookie into a festive delight! When I first made these Gluten-Free Snowball Cookies, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip up such a delightful treat. Their buttery, nutty flavor and tender, crumbly texture make them a holiday staple that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions. Not only is this recipe a breeze to prepare, but these snowball cookies are also freezer-friendly, allowing you to indulge anytime the craving strikes. Whether served alongside your favorite cup of coffee or gifted to loved ones, these little rounds of joy will surely warm hearts. Have you ever wondered how such simple ingredients can create such festive magic? Why are Gluten Free Snowball Cookies so Magical? Irresistible Flavor: These cookies are packed with buttery richness and nutty undertones that create a mouthwatering experience in every bite. Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, anyone can whip up a delightful batch, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. Perfect for Gifting: Beautifully rolled in powdered sugar, they are an inviting addition to cookie platters and make wonderful gifts for friends and family. Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even add chocolate chips for a twist on this classic treat! Freezer-Friendly: These cookies can be made ahead of time and freeze beautifully, ensuring you always have a festive snack on hand! Dive into the holiday spirit with these gluten-free delights and perhaps pair them with your favorite warm beverage, or check out my Banana Oatmeal Cookies for another wholesome treat to try! Gluten Free Snowball Cookies Ingredients • Here’s what you need to make these magical treats! For the Dough Butter – Provides richness and helps with texture; for a vegan version, use dairy-free butter. Powdered Sugar – Adds just the right sweetness and helps achieve a soft texture; no substitutes recommended. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; you can swap this with almond extract for a unique twist. Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 All Purpose Gluten Free Flour – This is the main structure ingredient for the cookies; ensure you spoon and level the flour for accuracy. Chopped Pecans – Introduces a delightful nuttiness and crunch; feel free to substitute with walnuts or omit for nut-free cookies. Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness beautifully; sea salt can work as an alternative. Enjoy these Gluten Free Snowball Cookies as a festive treat or cozy indulgence! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten Free Snowball Cookies Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your Gluten Free Snowball Cookies. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure the cookies don’t stick and can bake evenly. This preparation is crucial for achieving that delightful crumbly texture! Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar In a stand mixer, combine room temperature butter and powdered sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. You want to see a pale and airy texture that will help the cookies rise beautifully. This step is essential for introducing air into the dough, which contributes to the cookie’s delightful bite. Step 3: Mix in Flavorful Ingredients Next, add in the vanilla extract, gluten-free flour, and kosher salt to the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until a soft dough begins to form. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure that everything is well incorporated. The dough should be slightly sticky yet pliable, indicating it’s ready for the next step. Step 4: Fold in the Pecans Gently fold in the chopped pecans using a spatula until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will add a lovely nutty crunch that complements the buttery flavor of the Gluten Free Snowball Cookies. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the dough light and airy. Step 5: Shape the Cookies Use a rounded tablespoon to scoop out segments of the dough and roll them into balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them for spreading during baking. Aim for uniform sizes for even baking, ensuring your snowball cookies maintain their delightful round shape. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until the edges are just slightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they should look set but soft in the center. This timing ensures that the cookies remain tender and crumbly, mimicking that classic snowball texture. Step 7: Cool and Transfer Once baked, let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is essential, as it allows them to firm up just enough to avoid breaking apart. The cookies will still be warm, making them extra delectable to roll in powdered sugar. Step 8: Dust with Powdered Sugar Finally, while the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated. Allow them to cool completely, then roll them in the sugar once more for that perfect snowy finish! This final touch not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful sweetness that balances the buttery cookies beautifully. Gluten Free Snowball Cookies Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these delightful treats that bring joy to any occasion! Nut-Free: Omit the nuts completely to cater to allergies while still enjoying rich flavor and texture. Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist that enhances the classic buttery taste. Butter Alternative: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version, adding a subtle tropical flavor to the cookies. Spiced Variation: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy kick perfect for holiday gatherings. Coconut Snowballs: Mix in shredded coconut for added texture and a tropical touch. This twist enhances the visual appeal and taste! Almond Extract: Swap vanilla for almond extract to create a nuttier flavor profile; it beautifully complements the cookies’ texture. Dried Fruit Addition: Incorporate chopped dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of tartness in every bite. These fruity additions balance the sweetness delightfully! Pistachio Twist: Substitute pecans with chopped pistachios for a vibrant color and unique nutty flavor that will impress your guests. These delicious variations can transform your gluten-free snowball cookies into something uniquely yours while still keeping the festive spirit alive! For another delightful treat, consider trying my Cookies Cream Ice or my tasty Roll Sugar Cookies for your next gathering! Make Ahead Options These Gluten Free Snowball Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising on taste! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it; this helps the flavors meld and makes shaping the cookies easier. Just scoop and roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and cover with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, place them on a baking sheet, and bake as instructed. For longer storage, you can freeze the shaped dough for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, allow the cookies to cool completely before rolling in powdered sugar; they’ll be just as delicious and ready to delight your guests! What to Serve with Gluten Free Snowball Cookies? These delightful treats are not just a dessert; they can inspire a whole holiday meal experience! Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy richness of hot chocolate complements the buttery snowball cookies beautifully. Serve a cup alongside for a cozy treat. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider adds a fragrant, festive touch that pairs perfectly with the nutty flavors of the cookies. Christmas Fruitcake: The fruity, dense texture of Christmas fruitcake provides a delightful contrast to the tender snowball cookies, creating a charming holiday spread. Cheese Platter: Pairing your cookies with a selection of mild cheeses can elevate the flavor experience—think creamy brie or sharp cheddar balancing the sweetness! Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful temperature contrast, with the cookies being warm and the ice cream cold. Peppermint Tea: The refreshing notes from a cup of peppermint tea enhance the festive spirit and cleanse the palate after each sweet bite. Imagine these treats on a holiday dessert table, enhancing celebrations with delicious flavors and warm moments shared over good food! Helpful Tricks for Gluten Free Snowball Cookies Accurate Flour Measurement: Spoon and level the gluten-free flour to avoid using too much, which can lead to dense cookies. Temperature Matters: Ensure butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy dough. Cooling Time: Let cookies cool completely after baking before rolling in powdered sugar; this ensures the right texture and flavor. Nutty Substitutions: Feel free to replace pecans with walnuts or skip nuts for a nut-free version—just ensure flavor balance remains intact. Storage Tips: Keep your Gluten Free Snowball Cookies in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature to retain freshness. How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Snowball Cookies Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will maintain their tender texture and flavorful richness. Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying! Freezer: Freeze cookies for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Reheating: To serve, thaw frozen cookies overnight in the refrigerator, then roll in powdered sugar before enjoying for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste! Gluten Free Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs What type of butter should I use for Gluten Free Snowball Cookies? I recommend using unsalted butter for these cookies to control the saltiness. Make sure your butter is at room temperature to achieve the ideal creamy texture, which is crucial for the light and fluffy dough. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply substitute with a good-quality plant-based butter. How can I tell when my cookies are done baking? Bake your snowball cookies for about 12 minutes or until the edges turn slightly golden. They should be firm around the edges but soft in the center. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly based on your oven and the size of the cookies. How long can I store Gluten Free Snowball Cookies? You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their freshness, place them in the refrigerator, where they will last about a week. Just make sure to allow them to reach room temperature before savoring them! Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your Gluten Free Snowball Cookies, allow them to cool completely, then layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then roll in powdered sugar again for that fresh, snowy finish! Are there any common issues I should watch out for? One common issue is using too much flour, which can lead to dense cookies. Always spoon and level the flour to ensure you’re using the right amount. Also, be mindful that if you skip letting the cookies cool completely after baking, they might break apart when you roll them in powdered sugar. Patience is key! Can I make these cookies nut-free? Yes! If you or someone you are serving has a nut allergy, you can either completely omit the pecans or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds for added texture. Just remember to adjust your other ingredients slightly to maintain balance in flavor! Gluten Free Snowball Cookies: Irresistibly Buttery Delights Discover the magic of Gluten Free Snowball Cookies with their buttery flavor and festive appeal. Perfect for everyone, these cookies are a delight for the holidays. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 32 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 cup Butter room temperature, can substitute with dairy-free butter for a vegan version1 cup Powdered Sugar no substitutes recommended1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract can substitute with almond extract for a unique twist2 cups Bob's Red Mill 1:1 All Purpose Gluten Free Flour ensure spooned and leveled for accuracy1 cup Chopped Pecans can substitute with walnuts or omit for nut-free version1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt sea salt can be used as an alternative Equipment Stand mixerBaking sheetParchment paper Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Gluten Free Snowball CookiesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a stand mixer, cream together room temperature butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.Add vanilla extract, gluten-free flour, and kosher salt to the creamed mixture. Mix on low until soft dough forms.Gently fold in chopped pecans until evenly distributed.Use a rounded tablespoon to scoop the dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes until edges are slightly golden.Let cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.While warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar until fully coated. Allow to cool completely and roll again in sugar for the perfect finish. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesEnsure to spoon and level the gluten-free flour for accurate measurement. Let cookies cool completely after baking before rolling in powdered sugar. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
