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
