Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. If using nuts, fold them into the dough at this stage.

Step 3: Shape the Snowballs

1. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands.
2. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake the Snowballs

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

1. While the snowballs are baking, mix the 1/2 cup of sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Step 6: Coat the Snowballs

1. As soon as the snowballs come out of the oven, let them cool for 1-2 minutes until they are firm enough to handle but still warm.
2. Roll each snowball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
3. Place the coated snowballs on a wire rack to cool completely.