Get ready to experience a heavenly treat that will transport you straight to dessert paradise! These delicate, buttery pecan ball cookies are the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth sensation that will have your family and friends begging for more. With a delightful combination of rich butter, crunchy pecans, and a cloud-like powdered sugar coating, these cookies are not just a dessert – they're a sweet experience that promises to become an instant family favorite. Whether you're looking for a perfect holiday treat or a delightful afternoon snack, Anna's Pecan Ball Cookies are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer. Mix for approximately 3-4 minutes until the mixture is smooth and pale.
- Add vanilla extract to the butter mixture and blend thoroughly until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Fold in the finely chopped pecans using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Cover the mixing bowl and refrigerate the dough for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Using clean hands, roll the chilled dough into small 1-inch balls, placing them about
- 5 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are very lightly golden but the cookies remain pale.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- While still warm, gently roll each cookie in additional powdered sugar, coating them completely.
- Transfer the sugar-coated cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely.
- Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time for a more generous, snowy coating.
- Store the pecan ball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted. This creates the perfect creamy base for your cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Don't skip the refrigeration step! Chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes makes it easier to handle and helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Uniform Size is Key: Use a small cookie scoop or measure each ball to about 1 inch to ensure even baking.
- Rolling Technique: When coating with powdered sugar, do the first roll while the cookies are still warm, and the second roll once they've cooled completely for a perfect, even coating.
- Storage Tip: These cookies stay fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Pro tip: Place a piece of bread in the container to help maintain moisture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, making party prep a breeze!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
