Russian Tea Balls
Introduction
Russian Tea Balls are tender, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies rolled in powdered sugar, making them look like tiny snowballs. Often enjoyed during the holidays, they are famous for their crumbly texture and delicate nutty flavor. These cookies are incredibly easy to make, yet they carry a touch of elegance that makes them perfect for festive occasions, afternoon tea, or a simple sweet treat with coffee.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup (90 g) finely chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions & Methods
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add dry ingredients:
- Gradually stir in flour and salt until combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts. The dough will be thick but soft.
- 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. Do not overbake.
- Roll in sugar:
- Let cookies cool for 2–3 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
- Place on a wire rack to cool completely, then roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
History
Despite the name, Russian Tea Balls are more associated with European tea culture and festive baking than with Russia specifically. They became popular in America in the 20th century, often appearing in Christmas cookie assortments. Their origins may trace back to European shortbread-style nut cookies brought over by immigrants.
Benefits
- Simple ingredients – pantry staples you probably already have.
- Quick preparation – ready in under 30 minutes.
- Festive appeal – perfect for gift-giving or cookie exchanges.
- Make-ahead friendly – they store well and even taste better the next day.
Formation
The dough is made by creaming butter and sugar, then incorporating flour and nuts for texture. Shaping into small balls ensures even baking, and rolling them in powdered sugar twice gives the signature sweet, snowy coating.
Conclusion
Russian Tea Balls are the kind of cookie that bring warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. Whether served with tea, coffee, or hot cocoa, they’re a bite-sized reminder that sometimes the simplest recipes bring the most joy.
Lovers of This Dish
- Holiday bakers who love traditional cookies.
- People who enjoy nutty, buttery desserts.
- Those who want a melt-in-your-mouth sweet without heavy frosting or fillings.