Description
This snowball cookies recipe, also known as Powdered Domes with Ruby Pomegranate Seeds, transforms simple ingredients into stunning, melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for holiday gatherings and family tables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 0.5 cup (60g) powdered sugar (for dough)
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (for rolling)
- 2.25 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (110g) finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- 0.5 cup (85g) fresh pomegranate arils (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cream Butter And Sugar: Beat softened butter with 0.5 cup (60g) powdered sugar in a stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add Flavor: Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract until just combined (about 30 seconds).
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 2.25 cups (270g) flour, mixing on low speed until just incorporated and no dry streaks remain. Fold in 1 cup (110g) chopped nuts.
- Chill Dough: Cover the dough tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 days, until it feels firm.
- Shape Cookies: Roll dough into uniform 1-inch balls. Place them about 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined sheet pan.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and bottoms are set but still pale.
- First Sugar Roll: Let the baked cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm, gently roll each cookie in additional powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Cool And Second Sugar Roll: Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely (about 20-30 minutes). Once cool, roll them again in powdered sugar for an extra thick, snowy finish.
- Garnish: Just before serving, gently press a few fresh pomegranate arils onto each powdered dome for a beautiful ruby sparkle.
Notes
Optional add-ins include mini chocolate chips or lemon/orange zest. For dietary needs, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum or a dairy-free butter substitute. For a nut-free option, increase flour by 1-2 Tbsp or use finely shredded coconut. If dough is too dry, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk. Ensure dough is well-chilled to prevent spreading during baking. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 105 calories
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 18 mg
Keywords: snowball cookies, powdered domes, pomegranate, holiday, festive, Christmas, nuts, easy dessert, baking, winter treats