❄️ Russian Tea Balls: A Buttery Bite of Christmas Tradition
If your family is anything like mine, Christmas simply isn’t complete without a tray of snowy, buttery cookies nestled among twinkling lights and steaming mugs of cocoa. You know the ones—tender, nutty, dusted generously with powdered sugar like they’ve just come in from a gentle winter flurry.
These delightful little treats go by many names. Some call them Russian Tea Balls, others know them as Mexican Wedding Cookies, Snowballs, or even Southern Butterballs. But no matter what you call them, the magic is always the same: a melt-in-your-mouth cookie that instantly evokes the warmth and nostalgia of the holidays.
For generations, these cookies have been a staple in our family’s holiday traditions. Every December, my kitchen fills with the scent of vanilla and toasted nuts, the sound of laughter, and a light dusting of powdered sugar on every available surface (and person!).
Whether you’re starting a new baking tradition or revisiting a treasured favorite, these cookies are the perfect way to share a little sweetness and love this season.
🌟 Why These Cookies Are So Special
✅ A Family Classic:
Russian Tea Balls have stood the test of time. They’re one of those rare treats that appeal to every generation—from Grandma who remembers them from her own childhood, to little ones marveling at their snowy coating.
✅ Just Sweet Enough:
These cookies aren’t cloying or overly sugary. Instead, they strike a beautiful balance: buttery, nutty, lightly sweet, and delicately flavored with vanilla.
✅ The Texture!
Think: shortbread meets pecan sandies. Crumbly, tender, and so soft they almost melt on your tongue.
✅ Simple and Reliable:
With only six pantry-friendly ingredients, these cookies are deceptively easy to make—but they look (and taste!) like they came from a specialty bakery.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to whip up a batch of holiday magic:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup (120g) finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- (Optional: Add ½ tsp ground cinnamon for cozy warmth)
Yield: About 30 cookies, depending on size.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light, creamy, and fluffy—about 2 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing just until a dough starts to form.
Using a spatula or spoon, gently fold in the finely chopped nuts (and cinnamon, if using). The dough should be soft but not sticky.
3. Shape and Chill
Scoop out small amounts of dough and roll into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
For best results, chill the dough balls in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the texture.
4. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, just until they’re set. They should not brown on top—only a hint of golden color underneath is perfect.
Avoid overbaking; the goal is tender, not crisp!
5. Snowy Sugar Coating
While the cookies are still warm (but not falling apart), roll them gently in powdered sugar.
Allow them to cool completely, then roll again for a thick, beautiful snowy finish. This double-coating ensures they look festive and taste heavenly.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Use room-temperature butter. It creams better, creating a light, tender texture.
- Finely chop your nuts. Large chunks can make the dough crumbly and harder to shape.
- Chill the dough. Helps keep the cookies from spreading and gives a cleaner, rounder look.
- Double the batch! These go fast—trust me.
📦 Storing and Freezing
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw slightly, then bake as directed.
- Freeze baked cookies (before coating in sugar), then thaw and dust in fresh sugar before serving for best presentation.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with spiced chai, peppermint tea, or hot cocoa for a comforting holiday treat.
- Add them to a festive cookie tray alongside gingerbread, fudge, or shortbread.
- Package in holiday tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a beautiful homemade gift.
🎅 A Bite of Christmas Magic
More than just a cookie, Russian Tea Balls are a holiday ritual. From the moment you cream the butter to the final sugar dusting, every step feels like a step into holiday memory. They’re a little old-fashioned in the best way—wholesome, cozy, and full of heart.
So this season, take a moment to slow down, warm up the oven, and bake a batch. Share them with friends, family, neighbors—or savor a few with your favorite cup of tea by the twinkle of the Christmas tree.
These cookies are a sweet little reminder: the best gifts of the season are made with love.
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