Russian Tea Balls, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Snowball Cookies, are classic holiday treats cherished for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate sweetness. These cookies have been a staple in many households during festive seasons, embodying warmth and tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are simple to prepare and require just a handful of ingredients. Their rich, buttery flavor combined with a dusting of powdered sugar makes them irresistibly delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet accompaniment to your afternoon tea, Russian Tea Balls are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2¼ cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup finely chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or leave it ungreased.
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Vanilla Extract:
Mix in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Incorporate Nuts:
Fold in the finely chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Shape the Cookies:
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned.
Coat with Powdered Sugar:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly. While still warm, roll each cookie in additional powdered sugar until well coated.
Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a final coating.
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Servings and Timing
Servings: Approximately 48 cookies
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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
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Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes
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Variations
Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts and replace them with mini chocolate chips or toffee bits for a different flavor profile.
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Spiced Tea Balls: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the flour mixture for a warm, spiced variation.
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Citrus Twist: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange into the dough for a subtle citrus flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar before serving if needed.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter; however, you may want to reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
What types of nuts work best for this recipe?
Walnuts and pecans are traditional choices, but almonds or hazelnuts can also be used based on your preference.
Do I need to toast the nuts before adding them?
Toasting the nuts is optional but recommended, as it enhances their flavor and adds a subtle depth to the cookies.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. If chilled, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before shaping into balls.
Why are my cookies crumbly?
These cookies have a delicate, crumbly texture by design. Ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly and not overbaking, as too much flour or extended baking time can lead to excessive dryness.
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Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe can be doubled easily to make a larger batch.
How do I prevent the powdered sugar from melting into the cookies?
Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm helps the sugar adhere. A second coating after they’ve cooled ensures a generous, powdery finish.
Are Russian Tea Balls the same as Mexican Wedding Cookies?
Yes, these cookies are known by various names, including Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, Snowball Cookies, and Butterballs.
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Can I add flavorings like almond extract?
Absolutely. Adding ½ teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla can introduce a pleasant almond flavor to the cookies.
What should I do if my dough is too dry?
If the dough feels too dry and isn’t holding together, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to help it come together.
Conclusion
Russian Tea Balls are a timeless treat that brings a touch of nostalgia and sweetness to any occasion. Their simple preparation and delightful flavor make them a perfect addition to your holiday baking or as a year-round indulgence.
Russian Tea Balls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24–30 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These buttery Russian Tea Balls (also known as snowball cookies or Mexican wedding cookies) are a Christmas classic. Coated in powdered sugar and packed with tender, nutty goodness, they melt in your mouth and bring instant holiday cheer to any cookie tray!
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: 3/4 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans are traditional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
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Stir in flour, salt, and chopped nuts (if using) until a stiff dough forms.
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Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes or until bottoms are lightly golden (tops will remain pale).
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While warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar.
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Let cool, then roll in powdered sugar a second time for that snowy finish.
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Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Notes
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Make sure the cookies are warm (not hot) when you roll them the first time – it helps the sugar stick.
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These cookies freeze beautifully, making them great for gifting or prepping ahead.
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Swap in almond extract or chopped almonds for a flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Cookies
- Method: Baked
