The Origins of Snowball Cookies

Snowball Cookies, also known as Polvorones or Mantecados in Spain, are a traditional holiday treat with centuries of history. Their name comes from the way they’re rolled in powdered sugar, giving them the look of little snowballs. These cookies are especially popular around Christmas, served alongside turrón and other festive sweets. The key ingredient—pork lard—comes from Andalusian cuisine, where lard was traditionally used instead of butter. Combined with flour, sugar, and a splash of wine, the result is a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that perfectly complements a warm drink during winter celebrations.

Why These Ingredients Work Perfectly Together

The magic of Snowball Cookies lies in their simplicity. Iberic pork lard provides richness and tenderness, producing a texture that crumbles delicately with every bite. White wine adds a subtle depth of flavor and helps bring the dough together. Powdered sugar not only sweetens the dough but also prevents it from being overly heavy. Rolling the baked cookies in extra powdered sugar balances the flavor and creates their signature snowy look. Unlike other cookies, these don’t rely on leavening agents, so they stay dense yet soft—perfect for enjoying with coffee, tea, or holiday mulled wine.

Why You’ll Love Making Snowball Cookies at Home

These cookies are surprisingly easy to prepare, even if you’ve never baked with lard before. They require just a few pantry staples, and the dough comes together quickly by hand—no mixer needed. The cookies don’t spread or rise much in the oven, so what you shape is what you get. That makes them beginner-friendly and nearly foolproof. They store well in a tin for up to a week, making them ideal for holiday gifting or preparing ahead for Christmas parties. With their festive look and buttery, crumbly texture, Snowball Cookies will surely become a family favorite for the holidays.

Ingredients

• 500 g white flour
• 200 g Iberic pork lard (softened)
• 125 ml white wine
• 90 g powdered sugar
• Pinch of salt
• Extra powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Add softened lard and white wine. Mix with your hands until the dough forms a smooth ball.

Step 3: Roll & Shape

Roll out the dough to a thick sheet (do not use flour—dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking). Cut circles with a cookie cutter or glass rim.

Step 4: Bake

Place cookies on a baking tray. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, depending on your oven, until lightly golden.

Step 5: Coat in Sugar

While still warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar. Add more sugar before serving for a snowy finish.

Timing

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Nutrition (per cookie, approx. 24 cookies)

• Calories: 130
• Carbs: 15g
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fiber: 1g

Q1: Can I substitute butter for lard?

Yes, though the texture will be less crumbly. Lard gives authentic Spanish flavor and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Q2: Why do I roll them in powdered sugar twice?

The first coating sticks to the warm cookies, while the second adds sweetness and enhances the snowy appearance.

Q3: Can I make Snowball Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, they keep for up to a week in a sealed tin and actually taste better after a day.

Q4: Are Snowball Cookies the same as Russian Tea Cakes?

They’re similar, but Spanish Snowball Cookies use lard and wine, while Russian Tea Cakes typically use butter and nuts.

Q5: Can I add flavor variations?

Yes! Add lemon zest, orange zest, or a splash of vanilla extract for a unique twist.