Russian Tea Balls, also known as Snowball Cookies or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a timeless treat, perfect for holiday gatherings and tea-time indulgences. With their buttery, nutty flavor and delicate powdered sugar coating, these cookies are incredibly easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Let’s dive into how you can create these delightful confections in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Just a handful of pantry staples to make a treat everyone will love.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Perfect for Holidays: Their snowy appearance makes them a festive choice for winter celebrations.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These cookies store well, making them ideal for holiday gift-giving.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
Directions
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and blend well.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Stir in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
- Scoop out the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls using your hands.
- Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between them to allow for spreading.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are a light golden brown.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool slightly on the sheet.
Step 5: Coat with Powdered Sugar
- While the cookies are still warm, roll each one in powdered sugar to coat.
- Place the cookies on a wire rack to cool completely.
- For an extra snowy look, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Russian Tea Balls are best served at room temperature, allowing the buttery flavor to shine through. Pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
- Gifting: These cookies make an excellent holiday gift! Place them in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper for a festive touch.
Helpful Notes
- Nut Options: While walnuts and pecans are traditional, feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts.
- Dough Consistency: If the dough is too dry and crumbly, add a tablespoon of milk to help bring it together.
- Powdered Sugar Coating: For a smoother coating, sift the powdered sugar before rolling the cookies.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: “For a more pronounced nutty flavor, toast your nuts before adding them to the dough. It brings out a richer, deeper taste.”
- Martha Stewart: “When rolling the cookies in powdered sugar, place the sugar in a shallow bowl to coat each cookie thoroughly without making a mess.”
- Mary Berry: “Let your butter sit at room temperature for a few hours before baking. Soft butter creams more easily and makes the cookies tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A1: Yes, but reduce the added salt to a pinch since salted butter already contains salt.
Q2: Can I make the dough in advance?
A2: Absolutely! You can make the dough up to two days ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling into balls and baking.
Q3: Why do my cookies crumble when I roll them in powdered sugar?
A3: If the cookies are too hot, they may crumble. Allow them to cool slightly but still be warm enough for the sugar to stick.
Q4: Can I skip the nuts?
A4: Yes, you can omit the nuts, but the texture will change slightly. For a nut-free option, you could try using crushed pretzels for a similar crunch.
Q5: Can I use other types of flour, like almond or gluten-free flour?
A5: Almond flour can add a nice texture, but it will change the consistency, so use it with caution. For gluten-free flour, opt for a 1:1 baking mix to get the best results.
Q6: How can I make these cookies more festive?
A6: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the powdered sugar, or roll the cookies in colored sugar for a festive look.
Q7: Why are they called Russian Tea Balls?
A7: They’re believed to have originated in Eastern Europe, but their exact origins are unclear. They’ve been popularized in many cultures, often served with tea.
Q8: How many calories are in each cookie?
A8: Each cookie has approximately 120 kcal. Keep in mind this may vary slightly depending on the size and specific ingredients used.
Q9: Can I double this recipe?
A9: Yes, simply double each ingredient proportionally, and you’ll have enough for a larger batch.
Q10: Why are my cookies flat?
A10: Overmixing the dough or using too-soft butter can cause the cookies to spread. Ensure the dough is firm and the butter is just softened, not melted.
Russian Tea Balls are perfect for holiday baking, offering a nostalgic taste that’s hard to resist. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a joy to make and share, and they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Happy baking!