These Pistachio Rosewater Snowball Cookies are an elegant addition to your holiday baking. They offer a delicate blend of nutty pistachio and fragrant rosewater, creating a memorable Christmas treat.
Author:Jun Spoon
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:About 3 dozen cookies
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American/Middle Eastern influence
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup finely ground pistachios
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon rosewater
1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios (for rolling)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the vanilla and almond extracts, then mix in the rosewater.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground pistachios, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
Roll each dough ball lightly in the remaining chopped pistachios. Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are barely set. The cookies should remain pale.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once completely cool, dust generously with powdered sugar. You can roll them a second time in powdered sugar for a thicker coating if you like the classic snowball look.
Notes
For the best flavor, use high-quality, unsalted pistachios.
If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it for 15 minutes before rolling.
Rosewater strength varies; start with 1 tablespoon and taste the dough if you are unsure.
Store these cookies in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking.