Butternut Cookies

These Butternut Cookies are tender, buttery little bites that practically melt in your mouth. With finely chopped walnuts for crunch, a sweet powdered-sugar coating, and a soft interior, they’re the kind of classic cookie that feels timeless and comforting. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or enjoying with a warm drink, these cookies bake up beautifully with minimal effort and deliver that beloved “snowy” finish everyone recognizes.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Additional powdered sugar, for rolling

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat.
  2. Cream butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  3. Add flour and mix just until combined; the dough will look crumbly.
  4. Fold in walnuts, then mix in vanilla and a pinch of salt.
  5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and arrange on the baking sheet with space between them.
  6. Bake 12–15 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden and tops remain pale.
  7. Cool slightly, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.
  8. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely; roll again in powdered sugar if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 140 kcal | Servings: 24

Tips

  • Don’t overmix once the flour is added—this keeps the cookies tender and delicate.
  • Roll the cookies in sugar while still warm so the coating sticks perfectly.

FAQ

Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Yes—pecans work beautifully in this recipe.

Why is my dough crumbly?
That’s normal; it will hold together when rolled into balls.

How should I store these cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Can I freeze them?
Yes—freeze baked cookies or the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.

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