Russian Tea Balls (Snowball Cookies): The Ultimate Melt-in-Your-Mouth Holiday Treat
A timeless favorite, these simple, buttery, and nutty confections are coated in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar. Irresistible!
There’s something undeniably charming about **Russian Tea Balls**, also known as Snowball Cookies, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Butterball Cookies. These melt-in-your-mouth delights are small, round confections coated in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar. But don’t let their simplicity fool you—these cookies are rich, nutty, buttery, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges, holiday tea parties, or an elegant afternoon treat, Russian Tea Balls are a timeless favorite that never fails to impress.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- **Melt-in-your-mouth texture** thanks to real butter and finely ground nuts.
- **Beautifully festive** with a powdered sugar coating that looks like fresh snow.
- **Quick and easy** to make, using just a handful of pantry staples.
- **Perfect make-ahead treat**—they store beautifully and taste even better the next day.
🧈 Ingredients and Their Roles
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The foundation of these cookies. Butter gives richness, tenderness, and that classic melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating): Sweetens the dough without making it too sugary. The powdered texture ensures a smooth, delicate crumb.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor—don’t skip it!
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and balance, helping the cookies hold their shape.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the buttery flavor and balances the sweetness.
- ¾ cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds): The star of the show! Nuts add crunch, aroma, and a subtle nutty taste that defines traditional Russian Tea Balls.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
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Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the **butter** and **powdered sugar** until light and fluffy. Beat in the **vanilla extract** until smooth and well combined. -
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the **flour** and **salt**. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Stir in the chopped **nuts** until evenly distributed. -
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and **refrigerate for 30–45 minutes**. This step is crucial—it helps the cookies keep their round shape while baking and intensifies the buttery flavor. -
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into **1-inch balls** and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. -
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for **12–15 minutes**, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale. Allow them to cool for **5 minutes on the pan**—just until they’re cool enough to handle. -
Step 6: Coat in Sugar Magic
While still **warm**, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. Once **completely cool**, roll them again for that signature “snowball” look.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Russian Tea Balls
- **Don’t overbake!** These cookies should stay pale on top. Golden bottoms mean they’re done.
- Use **real butter**, not margarine. It makes all the difference in flavor and texture.
- **Finely chop or grind the nuts.** This helps the dough come together smoothly and evenly.
- **Double coat in powdered sugar.** The first coat melts slightly, and the second gives that beautiful snowy finish.
- **Make ahead and store.** These cookies stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
🍵 Serving Suggestions
Pair Russian Tea Balls with a steaming cup of **Earl Grey tea**, hot cocoa, or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy afternoon indulgence. They also make a stunning addition to a holiday dessert platter alongside gingerbread cookies, shortbread, and chocolate truffles. For an extra festive touch, dust them with a sprinkle of edible glitter or serve them in decorative tins as homemade holiday gifts.
✨ Final Thoughts
Russian Tea Balls are proof that the best things in life are often the simplest. With their crisp exterior, tender crumb, and snowy sugar coating, they embody comfort, tradition, and sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving something special, this easy recipe delivers old-fashioned charm and unforgettable flavor—every single time.
Happy Baking!