Vanilla Almond Snowball Cookies

Vanilla Almond Snowball Cookies: A Perfect Winter Delight
There’s something truly magical about a cookie that melts in your mouth, leaving behind the warm embrace of vanilla and the delicate crunch of almonds. These Vanilla Almond Snowball Cookies are a timeless treat, perfect for cozy winter days or as a stunning addition to your holiday dessert spread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe is simple, foolproof, and absolutely irresistible.

What makes these cookies so special?
To begin with, it’s their unique texture. The buttery dough, packed with finely ground almonds, creates a light and crumbly bite that feels luxurious. Furthermore, there’s the double coating of powdered sugar, which transforms these little treats into fluffy, snow-like balls. Not only do they look festive, but they’re also irresistibly sweet. With just the right balance of vanilla and almond flavors, every bite feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day.

Versatile and Festive
In addition to their delicious flavor, these cookies are incredibly versatile. For instance, you can serve them alongside a steaming mug of cocoa, package them in charming holiday tins for gifting, or simply savor them as a quiet moment of indulgence. Moreover, they’re easy to make ahead and store, making them a stress-free option for busy holiday schedules. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party or baking treats for loved ones, these cookies are the perfect choice.

Simple and Stress-Free to Make
To make your baking experience as smooth as possible, we’ve included step-by-step instructions along with helpful tips to perfect these cookies every single time. For example, chilling the dough before rolling helps maintain their delicate texture. Additionally, don’t forget to dust them generously with powdered sugar—not only is it decorative, but it also gives them their signature “snowball” charm.

Time to Bake Some Magic
So, gather your ingredients and preheat the oven—it’s time to create a batch of holiday magic. These tender, nutty, and oh-so-pretty cookies are bound to become a cherished recipe in your home. Whether you’re sharing them with family, gifting them to friends, or keeping a batch for yourself, these Vanilla Almond Snowball Cookies are guaranteed to impress. Happy baking!

INGREDIENTS
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup finely ground almonds
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Optional: Edible glitter or finely grated white chocolate (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/3 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla and almond extracts.

2. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, ground almonds, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough is just combined. Cover and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

3. Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out small portions of the dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into smooth balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie.

4. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are just lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.

5. Coat in Snow: While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated. Let them cool completely and roll them in powdered sugar a second time for a thick, snowy coating.

6. Optional Garnish: Lightly dust with edible glitter or sprinkle with finely grated white chocolate for an extra festive touch.

Tips:
For a burst of flavor, you can mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the powdered sugar for coating.
Store these cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.