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Snowball Cookies

Wholesome Indulgence: Snowball Cookies Delight

Introduction

Embark on a delightful journey of flavor and wellness with our 2-Point Snowball Cookies. These dainty treats are not just a burst of nutty sweetness but also a mindful indulgence tailored for those on the Weight Watchers journey. Crafted with precision and a dash of creativity, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without derailing your wellness goals. Join us as we explore the intricacies of this recipe, providing a delectable and guilt-free treat for your taste buds.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup finely chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

  1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. This forms the base of your delectable snowball cookies.

Cream the Wet Ingredients

  1. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. This ensures a smooth and cohesive cookie dough.

Combine and Form Dough

  1. Combine the ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. Be cautious not to overmix, maintaining the delicate texture of the cookies.
  2. Fold in the nuts: Fold in the finely chopped nuts until evenly distributed in the dough.

Shape into Balls

  1. Shape the dough: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for expansion.

Bake to Perfection

  1. Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are set but not browned. Keep a watchful eye to prevent over-baking and ensure a soft and chewy center.

Roll in Confectioners’ Sugar

  1. Cool and coat: Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. While they are still warm, gently roll each cookie in additional powdered sugar, coating them generously for that signature snowball appearance.

Cool Completely

  1. Final cooling: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing. This helps them set and ensures the perfect texture.

Tips for the Best Snowball Cookies

Ingredient Tips

  • Nutty Alternatives: Experiment with different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts to add a unique twist to your snowball cookies. Each type of nut brings a distinct flavor and texture to the cookies.
  • Butter Temperature: Ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature. This makes it easier to cream with the sugar and results in a smoother dough.
  • Sugar Coating: For an extra snowy look, roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice—once while they are warm and once more after they have cooled completely.
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Storage Tips

  • Storing: Keep your 2-Point Snowball Cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can last for several days, making them a convenient treat for your sweet cravings.
  • Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Baking Tips

  • Watch the baking time: The cookies should be set but not browned. Over-baking will make them too crunchy, losing the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Uniform Size: Roll the dough into uniform balls to ensure even baking. Using a small cookie scoop can help with this.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber. However, this may alter the texture slightly, making the cookies a bit denser.

What nuts work best in this recipe?

Pecans and walnuts are classic choices for snowball cookies. However, you can also use almonds, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts for different flavors and textures.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure the blend includes a binder like xanthan gum to maintain the structure of the cookies.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or margarine. Ensure the substitute is suitable for baking to achieve the best results.

How many Weight Watchers points are in each cookie?

Each cookie is approximately 1 to 2 points on the Weight Watchers program, making them a great low-point treat option. Always check the specific points based on the ingredients you use.

By following this detailed recipe and tips, you can easily make a batch of 2-Point Snowball Cookies that are perfect for indulging in a sweet treat without compromising your wellness journey. Enjoy these delightful cookies with family and friends, knowing they are both delicious and mindful of your dietary goals!