Georgia O’Keeffe’s Pecan Butterballs: The Ultimate Buttery, Nutty Treat that Will Melt in Your Mouth

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s tender, nutty, and melts in your mouth, Georgia O’Keeffe’s Pecan Butterballs are exactly what you need. These rich cookies combine the classic combination of buttery dough and finely chopped pecans, all rolled in powdered sugar for a sweet finish. With a taste reminiscent of holidays and family gatherings, these pecan butterballs are guaranteed to become a favorite treat year-round. Simple ingredients come together in a recipe that's perfect for any occasion—whether it's a cozy night in or a holiday celebration!

Scroll to the bottom for recipe!

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The Story Behind Georgia O’Keeffe’s Pecan Butterballs

Pecan butterballs, also known as snowball cookies, have been a long-time favorite across generations. With their delicate texture and nutty flavor, these cookies have become a staple in many homes during the holiday season. Georgia O’Keeffe, renowned for her art, was also known for her love of simple and wholesome foods. Her pecan butterball recipe reflects this—rich, buttery, and subtly sweet, allowing the pecans to truly shine. They are the perfect balance of sweet and nutty, with each bite offering a tender crumb and a burst of flavor.

Why You’ll Love Georgia O’Keeffe’s Pecan Butterballs

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, these cookies come together effortlessly and pack a punch of flavor. The butter provides a rich base, while the pecans add a delightful crunch. Rolling them in powdered sugar gives them an irresistible sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory pecans. Plus, these cookies store beautifully, making them the perfect treat to prepare ahead of time for gatherings or as homemade gifts.

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Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, Based on 24 Cookies):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 1g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 40mg

These butterballs are a rich indulgence that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them the perfect companion for a sweet afternoon break or a cozy evening treat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These pecan butterballs are delightful when served with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or even hot cocoa. For an extra indulgent treat, you can pair them with a glass of milk or a creamy latte. If you’re serving them during the holidays, consider presenting them on a festive platter along with other holiday cookies. They also make a wonderful addition to gift baskets, packaged in a beautiful tin or jar.

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Storage and Freezing Tips

Pecan butterballs can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to a month. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours and roll them in powdered sugar again if desired.

Fun Fact: The History of Butterball Cookies

Butterball cookies, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or Russian tea cakes, have a rich history that spans various cultures. These cookies are traditionally made with butter, sugar, and nuts, and they’re often associated with festive occasions like weddings and holidays. Their delicate texture and sweet, powdered sugar coating have made them a favorite treat around the world for centuries!

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Cooking Tips

• Use Cold Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but still cold. This will help the dough come together properly and result in a tender cookie.
• Chop Pecans Finely: For a more even texture, chop the pecans finely so that they incorporate well into the dough.
• Extra Powdered Sugar: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar once they are still warm and again after they have cooled to achieve a perfect, sweet coating.

Optional Variations

• Add a Touch of Spice: For a festive twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth and flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzle some melted dark or milk chocolate over the cooled cookies for an added layer of richness.
• Other Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

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Georgia O’Keeffe’s Pecan Butterballs Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups finely chopped pecans
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Honey: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, honey, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the finely chopped pecans by hand, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake: Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
7. Roll in Powdered Sugar: Once the cookies are baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While they are still warm, roll each cookie in the powdered sugar to coat them evenly.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. If desired, roll them in a second coat of powdered sugar before serving to give them an extra sweet finish.

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Georgia O’Keeffe’s Pecan Butterballs are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their delicate, buttery texture and nutty flavor make them a crowd-pleaser, and their simplicity means you can whip up a batch anytime. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or gifting them to loved ones, these pecan butterballs are sure to become a favorite in your home.