Triple Nut Snowballs are delightful cookies with balanced nuttiness and minimal sweetness, perfect for holiday gatherings. These cookies, often referred to as Nutty Snowball Treats, melt in your mouth, making them an irresistible addition to your dessert table. The combination of cashews, macadamia nuts, and pecans creates a satisfying crunch that complements the buttery dough. Whether you’re preparing for a festive party or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies will surely bring joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Triple Nut Snowballs

These cookies are more than just a treat; they offer a unique blend of flavors and textures. First, they are incredibly easy to make—perfect for busy holiday schedules. Second, they are made with simple ingredients, ensuring you can whip them up on short notice. Third, the use of various nuts provides a delightful crunch, making them a crowd-pleaser. Additionally, these cookies can be adapted to suit different dietary needs with gluten-free and vegan options available. Lastly, they are visually appealing, dusted with confectioners’ sugar, making them a festive addition to any dessert spread. With all these reasons, it’s no wonder they are often called Nutty Melting Moments!

Ingredients for Triple Nut Snowballs

Gather these items:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
½ cup confectioners’ sugar (plus extra for dusting)
1 teaspoon almond extract (can substitute with vanilla extract)
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1 cup unsalted cashews (can replace with walnuts)
1 cup macadamia nuts (can substitute with hazelnuts)
1 cup pecan halves (can replace with almonds)

How to Make Triple Nut Snowballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar until fluffy and light, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Gently mix in the almond extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and optional cinnamon. Gradually mix this into the creamed mixture until just combined.
Step 5: In a food processor, pulse the cashews, macadamia nuts, and pecans until finely ground. Fold this into the dough.
Step 6: Form the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
Step 7: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Step 8: Once cooled for about 10 minutes, roll each cookie in confectioners’ sugar twice.

Pro Tips for the Best Triple Nut Snowballs

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for a fluffy texture.
Don’t overmix the dough once the flour is added to keep the cookies tender.
For a healthier alternative, consider using coconut oil instead of butter.
These cookies can be made vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative.

Best Ways to Serve Triple Nut Snowballs

Serve these delicious cookies alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat. They’re also perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or as a sweet addition to dessert platters at festive gatherings. Try pairing them with chocolate sauce for a decadent touch. For a delightful twist, consider offering them as part of a Nut-Filled Snowball Dessert Recipe!

How to Store and Reheat Triple Nut Snowballs

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature. These cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to have homemade treats ready whenever you need a sweet snack.

Frequently Asked Questions About Triple Nut Snowballs

What’s the secret to perfect Triple Nut Snowballs?

The secret lies in using fresh, high-quality nuts and ensuring not to overbake them. The balance of the three nuts—cashews, macadamias, and pecans—creates a rich flavor that defines these cookies. Keeping the dough chilled before baking can also help maintain their shape.

Can I make Triple Nut Snowballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just roll the cookies and bake them fresh when you’re ready. This makes them a convenient treat for busy holiday schedules.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Triple Nut Snowballs?

Common mistakes include overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough cookies, and not measuring ingredients accurately. Always use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour. Also, ensure your oven is preheated to avoid uneven baking.

Variations of Triple Nut Snowballs You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different nuts based on your preferences or allergies. Almonds can replace pecans, while walnuts can stand in for cashews. You can also try adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for a unique twist. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Tuscan Scallops or Grandma Carter’s Peanut Butter Cookies. You can also explore Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken for a savory option!