Snowball Cookies {Dairy-Free Option} Recipe

Introduction

Snowball Cookies are delicate, buttery treats that melt in your mouth and are perfect for any occasion. This recipe includes a dairy-free option, making these nutty cookies enjoyable for everyone.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter (dairy-free use Smart Balance butter, vegan use Earth Balance (Vegan) butter)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
• 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (leave out if your flour already has it)
• 3/4 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans recommended)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and combined.
3. Step 3: Add the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum (if using), salt, and finely chopped nuts. Mix until the dough is fully combined and begins to hold together.
4. Step 4: Shape the dough into 1-inch balls using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, making sure they are not too large. Place the balls 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Step 5: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 5 minutes to firm up the dough.
6. Step 6: Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes until they are set but not browned. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary.
7. Step 7: Let the cookies cool for 3–5 minutes. Then, roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. After they cool completely, roll them in powdered sugar again for a perfect finish.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the nuts lightly before chopping to bring out their aroma.
• If you want a different nut option, try walnuts or almonds for a unique taste.
• Make sure not to overbake; the cookies should remain pale and tender.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. Reheat briefly at room temperature before serving to enjoy their softness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of dairy-free or vegan butter?

Yes, you can use regular butter if you are not avoiding dairy. It will give the cookies a rich, traditional flavor.

What can I substitute if I don’t have xanthan gum?

If your gluten-free flour blend already contains xanthan gum, you can omit it here. Otherwise, you can substitute with guar gum or simply leave it out, although the texture might be slightly less sturdy.

Snowball Cookies {Dairy-Free Option} Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 84 reviews

These Snowball Cookies are delightful, gluten-free treats perfect for any occasion. With a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a dairy-free option using vegan butters, these nutty cookies are rolled in powdered sugar for a sweet, snowy finish. They’re easy to prepare and bake quickly for a perfect homemade cookie experience.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Dough

• 1 cup butter (dairy-free option: Smart Balance butter; vegan option: Earth Balance vegan butter)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
• 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if your gluten-free flour blend already contains it)
• 3/4 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans recommended)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Rolling

• Powdered sugar (for coating)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the cookies.
2. Cream Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy, ensuring a well-mixed base for the dough.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: Add the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum (if using), salt, and finely chopped nuts to the creamed mixture. Mix thoroughly until the dough comes together and starts to hold its shape.
4. Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form the dough into 1-inch balls. Arrange them about 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and allow even baking.
5. Freeze Dough Balls: Place the tray with dough balls into the freezer for 5 minutes. This step helps the cookies keep their shape during baking.
6. Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until they are set but not browned. Keep a close eye as oven temperatures vary and you want to avoid over-browning.
7. First Sugar Coat: Let the cookies cool for 3-5 minutes. Then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm to create the first sugary coating.
8. Second Sugar Coat: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then roll them again in powdered sugar for a beautifully snowy finish.
9. Store Properly: Store the cooled cookies in an air-tight container to maintain freshness.

Notes

• Ensure your gluten-free flour blend does not already contain xanthan gum before adding extra.
• Use finely chopped nuts to ensure even distribution and pleasant texture.
• Do not make cookies larger than 1 inch to ensure proper baking and texture.
• Watch baking time closely to prevent browning, as overcooked cookies lose their delicate texture.
• Powdered sugar coating adds sweetness and the signature ‘snowball’ appearance; do not skip the double coating.

Keywords: snowball cookies, gluten-free cookies, dairy-free cookies, vegan cookies, holiday cookies, nut cookies, powdered sugar cookies