Gluten Free Snowball Cookies

These Gluten Free Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy family get-togethers. With their rich buttery flavor and tender texture, these cookies promise to melt in your mouth. Made with just six simple ingredients, they showcase the wonderful taste of walnuts and can easily be enjoyed by those adhering to a gluten-free diet. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just looking for a sweet snack, these cookies will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With only six ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for novice bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter and walnuts creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Occasion: These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or just a sweet treat any day.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: Using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend makes these cookies safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Make Ahead Option: The dough can be chilled overnight, allowing you to prepare ahead of time.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the essential tools listed below. Having the right equipment not only saves time but also ensures consistent results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowl
• Cookie sheets
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: This tool simplifies the creaming process of butter and sugar, ensuring a smooth dough.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl gives ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
• Cookie sheets: Using ungreased cookie sheets helps achieve the right texture while preventing sticking.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, (at room temperature)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups 1:1 gluten free baking flour (recommended: Bob’s Red Mill)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling the cookies

How to Make Gluten Free Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will prepare it for baking your delicious cookies.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl:
1. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream together the unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
2. Blend in the vanilla extract, mixing well.

Step 3: Add Flour

Gradually mix in the gluten free baking flour. Continue blending until all ingredients are well combined into a smooth dough.

Step 4: Incorporate Walnuts

Using a spoon or spatula:
Work in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate the dough until firm:
Chill for about 30 minutes. If preferred, it can stay in the refrigerator overnight.

Step 6: Form Cookies

Once chilled:
1. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls.
2. Place them on ungreased cookie sheets spaced apart.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven:
For about 8-10 minutes, or until set but not browned.

Step 8: Roll in Sugar

After baking:
1. Let them cool on the pan for a couple of minutes.
2. Roll warm cookies in additional powdered sugar. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Final Dusting

Once cooled completely:
Roll them again in powdered sugar before serving for an extra sweet touch!

Enjoy these delightful Gluten Free Snowball Cookies as part of your holiday tradition or whenever you crave something sweet!

How to Serve Gluten Free Snowball Cookies

These delightful Gluten Free Snowball Cookies are perfect for any occasion, and serving them can enhance their appeal. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these sweet treats.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the buttery notes of the cookies perfectly.
• Tea: A warm cup of tea offers a soothing balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Hot Chocolate: Pairing with hot chocolate makes for a cozy dessert experience, especially in winter.

As Part of a Cookie Platter

• Mixed Cookie Tray: Include various cookies alongside these snowball cookies for a festive presentation.
• Themed Desserts: Arrange the cookies with other holiday-themed treats for special occasions.

Garnished with Nuts

• Chopped Walnuts: Sprinkling additional chopped walnuts on top adds texture and an extra nutty flavor.
• Candied Pecans: For a sweeter twist, consider adding candied pecans as a garnish.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Snowball Cookies

Making perfect Gluten Free Snowball Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter mixes easily, resulting in a smoother dough and tender cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps maintain shape during baking and enhances flavor.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies; spoon it into the measuring cup for precision.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove from the oven when they are just set; they will firm up as they cool.
• Roll in Powdered Sugar Twice: For an extra sweet finish, roll warm cookies in powdered sugar right after baking and again once cooled.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Snowball Cookies

While these cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with other side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a light contrast to the richness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can provide a savory balance to the sweet flavors of snowball cookies.
3. Ice Cream – Vanilla or chocolate ice cream pairs wonderfully, creating an indulgent dessert combo.
4. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and fruit complements the textures of the snowball cookies nicely.
5. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate for an interactive treat that guests will love.
6. Pecan Pie Bars – These bars offer another nutty flavor and make for an excellent duo with snowball cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Gluten Free Snowball Cookies can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong flour: Not all gluten free flours behave the same. Stick to a high-quality 1:1 gluten free flour blend for the best results.
• Skipping chilling time: Failing to chill the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Always chill for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
• Overbaking the cookies: Baking these cookies too long can result in dry, hard treats. Bake just until they are barely set and not browned.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture. Use a kitchen scale or level off measuring cups for precision.
• Forgetting to roll in powdered sugar twice: Only rolling once means missing out on that sweet outer layer. Remember to roll them warm and again after cooling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing Gluten Free Snowball Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to three months.

Reheating Gluten Free Snowball Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Lightly toast in a pan over low heat, flipping gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gluten Free Snowball Cookies.

Can I use another type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds based on your preference.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for cookies that are barely set and appear slightly pale. They should not brown.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Certainly! Substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you want them to last longer.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten Free Snowball Cookies are not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different nuts or flavor extracts. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet taste, they’re perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a heavenly treat!