Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Russian Tea Balls, also known as Snowball Cookies or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a holiday classic. These soft, buttery cookies are filled with finely chopped nuts, lightly sweetened, and coated in powdered sugar for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. They’re easy to make, require just a few simple ingredients, and are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a cozy treat with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Unsalted butter (softened)
- Powdered sugar (for the dough and dusting)
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- Salt
Directions
Prepare the Dough
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Vanilla & Flour: Mix in vanilla extract, then gradually add flour and salt. Stir until just combined.
- Fold in Nuts: Gently fold in the finely chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
Shape & Bake
- Form the Dough Balls: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until set but not browned.
- Cool Slightly & Coat: Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm.
- Second Coating: Once fully cooled, roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap nuts for shredded coconut or omit them entirely.
- Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive touch.
- Citrus Zest: Mix in orange or lemon zest for a hint of brightness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- Re-Coating: If storing long-term, roll in extra powdered sugar before serving.
FAQs
Why are my cookies falling apart?
Russian Tea Balls are crumbly by nature, but if they’re too dry, try adding a little more butter.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! Walnuts, pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts work great.
Do these cookies spread while baking?
No, they hold their shape, so spacing them close together is fine.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking.
Should I toast the nuts before adding them?
Toasting enhances the flavor but is optional. If using toasted nuts, let them cool before mixing.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.
Why do I roll them in powdered sugar twice?
The first roll helps the sugar stick, and the second gives them a beautiful snowy finish.
Can I make smaller or larger cookies?
Yes! Adjust the baking time accordingly—smaller cookies bake faster.
How do I keep them from getting too hard?
Store them in an airtight container, and avoid overbaking.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Russian Tea Balls are the perfect holiday cookies easy to make, delightfully nutty, and beautifully coated in powdered sugar. Whether you enjoy them with tea, coffee, or as part of a festive cookie platter, they bring warmth and tradition to any celebration. Try different variations, make a big batch to share, and enjoy these timeless, melt-in-your-mouth treats!
Print
Russian Tea Balls
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Russian Tea Balls are classic holiday cookies that melt in your mouth! Made with buttery dough, finely chopped nuts, and coated in powdered sugar, these delicate, nutty treats are a festive favorite. Easy to make and perfect for gifting or sharing!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in flour, salt, and chopped nuts until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Coat in Sugar: While still warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar. Let cool, then roll in sugar again for a snowy finish.
- Serve & Enjoy: Store in an airtight container and enjoy these delightful holiday cookies!
Notes
- Substitute pecans with almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
- Store at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
- Also known as Snowball Cookies or Mexican Wedding Cookies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Russian, European
