Buttery Russian Tea Balls – Classic Holiday Cookies

Buttery Russian Tea Balls – Classic Holiday Cookies: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Magic 🍪❄️✨

1. Introduction

Buttery Russian Tea Balls are more than just cookies – they’re edible holiday memories wrapped in powdered sugar. These delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treats have been gracing cookie trays for generations, earning their place as a timeless classic. Whether you call them Russian tea cookies, snowball cookies, or Mexican wedding cookies, this Russian tea cookies recipe delivers perfection in every bite. The combination of rich butter, crunchy nuts, and snowy sugar coating makes them irresistible for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or cozy winter afternoons with tea. If you’re looking for more delicious dessert ideas, check out our dessert recipes collection for inspiration.

2. Ingredients

Gathering quality ingredients is the first step to perfect Russian tea balls. For this Russian tea cookies recipe, you’ll need:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (European-style butter works exceptionally well)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting (about 1 additional cup)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (or try almond extract for variation)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accuracy)
• 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans are traditional, but feel creative!)
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt (enhances all the flavors)

For those who love experimenting with flavors, you might enjoy our Lemon Raspberry Cookies as another delightful baking project.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together for 3-4 minutes until light, fluffy, and almost white in color. This crucial step incorporates air into your Russian tea balls, creating that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Add the vanilla extract and mix just until combined – overmixing at this stage can cause your cookies to spread.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the flour and salt on low speed until just combined – you should still see streaks of flour when you stop mixing. This prevents overworking the gluten. Then, gently fold in the chopped nuts with a spatula until evenly distributed. The dough should hold together when pressed but not be sticky. If it’s too crumbly, add 1-2 teaspoons of cold water. For more cooking techniques, explore our Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes recipe.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position racks in the center. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll between your palms to form smooth 1-inch balls. Place them about 1 inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet (or parchment-lined for easier cleanup). Pro tip: Chill the dough for 30 minutes if your kitchen is warm – this helps the cookies maintain their perfect round shape.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12-15 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden – the tops should remain pale. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking. The cookies will be soft when hot but firm up as they cool. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for exactly 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack – this prevents breakage but avoids sticking. For more oven-baked goodness, try our Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice.

4. Finishing Touches

While still slightly warm (but not hot), gently roll each cookie in a bowl of powdered sugar. The residual warmth helps the sugar adhere beautifully. Let cool completely on the wire rack, then roll again in powdered sugar for that perfect snowy effect. For presentation, you can sift additional powdered sugar over the arranged cookies just before serving. Share your creations on our Facebook page – we love seeing your baking successes!

5. Storage Tips

Proper storage keeps your Russian tea balls fresh and delicious:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to 2 weeks
• Freezing unbaked: Shape dough balls and freeze on a tray before transferring to bags (bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes)
• Freezing baked: Freeze without final sugar coating, then refresh with new powdered sugar after thawing

For more meal prep ideas, check out our Ground Beef and Potatoes recipe that’s perfect for freezing.

6. Variations

This versatile Russian tea cookies recipe welcomes creativity:

• Nut variations: Try toasted hazelnuts, macadamias, or pistachios
• Flavor twists: Add citrus zest, espresso powder, or pumpkin spice
• Holiday colors: Roll in colored sugars or drizzle with chocolate
• Dietary options: Use gluten-free flour or vegan butter substitutes

7. Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Russian tea balls presentation:

• Arrange on vintage cake stands with sprigs of fresh rosemary
• Package in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon for gifts
• Create a cookie buffet with our breakfast pastries for brunch events
• Serve with mulled wine or spiced cider for holiday parties

8. Why This Recipe Works

The science behind perfect Russian tea cookies:

• Butter temperature: Properly softened butter (65°F) creams perfectly
• Powdered sugar: Finer texture creates tender crumb vs. granulated sugar
• Baking time: Short baking preserves delicate texture
• Double coating: Ensures consistent snowy appearance

9. Conclusion

This Buttery Russian Tea Balls recipe is more than instructions – it’s an invitation to create edible holiday magic. As you dust each warm cookie with snowy powdered sugar, you’re continuing a tradition that spans generations and cultures. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these Russian tea cookies offer simple elegance in every bite. For more culinary inspiration, browse our dinner recipes or learn more about our kitchen. Happy baking, and may your holidays be as sweet as these timeless treats!

Before trying any recipes, please review our disclaimer and terms and conditions.

Print