Introduction
Vanilla Snowball Truffles are soft, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth bite-sized treats traditionally inspired by classic snowball or meltaway cookies. These truffles combine a creamy interior with a smooth vanilla glaze and a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simple sweet cravings, they are easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and look beautifully festive on any dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Truffle Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For the Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Finish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and continue mixing until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla (and almond extract if using).
- Add flour and salt; mix until a soft dough forms.
- Cover and chill for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2 — Form the Truffles
- Roll small 1-inch balls from the chilled dough.
- Place them onto a lined baking tray.
Step 3 — Bake
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Bake truffles for 10–12 minutes, just until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Let them cool completely — they will firm up as they cool.
Step 4 — Dip in Glaze
- Melt white chocolate with heavy cream until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla.
- Dip each cooled truffle into the glaze.
- Place on parchment paper to set.
Step 5 — Final Snowy Finish
- Dust generously with powdered sugar for the “snowball” look.
Methods (Expanded Cooking Techniques)
Creaming Method
Beating the butter and sugar together introduces air for a softer, lighter texture.
Chilling Method
Refrigeration prevents spreading and keeps the truffles round while baking.
Dipping Method
Smoothly melted chocolate gives a glossy, firm glaze after cooling.
Dusting Method
Powdered sugar adds sweetness and a snowy appearance.
History
Snowball-style desserts originated from European holiday butter cookies, often called “Russian Tea Cakes” or “Mexican Wedding Cookies.” They became especially popular in winter because their snowy appearance matched festive celebrations. This truffle version is a modern twist, blending the traditional meltaway cookie with contemporary no-crumble truffle textures and glossy coatings.
Benefits
- Simple Ingredients — mostly pantry staples.
- Kid-friendly — soft, sweet, gentle flavor.
- Festive presentation — perfect for parties.
- Freezer-friendly — can be stored long-term.
- Versatile — can be flavored with lemon, almond, coconut, caramel, or nut fillings.
Formation (Structure of the Treat)
- Exterior: A thin vanilla-white chocolate glaze that sets firmly.
- Middle Layer: A snowy coating of powdered sugar.
- Interior: Soft, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth dough with a smooth texture similar to shortbread or meltaway cookies.
Nutrition (Per 1 Truffle Approx.)
- Calories: 120–140
- Fat: 8–9 g
- Carbohydrates: 12–15 g
- Sugar: 7–9 g
- Protein: 1–2 g
- Sodium: 10–20 mg
(Values vary based on size and glaze amount.)
Lovers (Who Will Love This Dessert?)
- Vanilla lovers
- Holiday dessert fans
- People who enjoy soft, buttery cookies
- Kids who like sweet and gentle flavors
- Home bakers wanting easy no-mess recipes
- Anyone who loves melt-in-your-mouth treats
Conclusion
Vanilla Snowball Truffles are a heavenly combination of buttery softness, sweet glaze, and snowy powdered sugar. Beautiful, delicate, and incredibly easy to make, they suit every celebration — from holidays to casual gatherings. This recipe brings together tradition, comfort, and elegance in every bite.
Lovers (Final Note)
These truffles are adored by cookie lovers, vanilla enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys festive, soft, sweet treats that leave a meltaway feeling with every bite.
