Get ready to transform your holiday baking game with these irresistible Noel Nut Balls – a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy that's about to become your new favorite seasonal sensation! Imagine biting into a delicate, buttery cookie dusted with a cloud of powdered sugar, packed with rich, nutty flavor that whispers of festive cheer. These little balls of joy are not just a dessert; they're a Christmas tradition waiting to happen in your kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup flour
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- In a medium mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer or whisk.
- Add vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and blend thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Gradually fold in the finely chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Slowly add flour to the mixture, stirring gently until a cohesive dough forms. The consistency should be slightly crumbly but able to hold together when pressed.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle and shape.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using clean hands, roll the chilled dough into small, uniform balls approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Remove from oven and let the nut balls cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- While still warm, gently roll each ball in powdered sugar, ensuring complete coverage.
- Transfer the coated nut balls to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with an additional layer of powdered sugar for a festive, snow-like appearance.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing and optimal texture.
- Nut Selection: Use finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for the best flavor and consistency.
- Chilling is Crucial: Don't skip the refrigeration step – it helps the dough hold together and makes shaping easier.
- Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to create consistently sized balls for even baking.
- Powdered Sugar Technique: Roll the balls in powdered sugar while they're still warm for better sugar adhesion, then dust again once completely cooled for that classic snow-like finish.
- Storage Hack: Layer the cookies with parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.
- Make Ahead: These cookies actually improve in flavor after a day, making them perfect for holiday prep in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
