If you have a soft spot for melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a subtle nutty crunch, then you are going to adore this Russian Tea Balls Recipe. These delicate, snowball-like treats bring together buttery richness, a whisper of vanilla, and finely chopped nuts, all coated in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar that feels magical with every bite. Whether you’re gathering around the holidays or simply craving a classic cookie that’s as charming as it is delicious, this Russian Tea Balls Recipe offers a nostalgic hug in cookie form. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a favorite stamping its own little joyful mark in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together these sumptuous Russian Tea Balls requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating that irresistible texture and flavor. From the creamy butter that forms the tender base to the chopped nuts that add a satisfying bite, these ingredients are both humble and essential.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation for that rich, tender crumb that makes these cookies so melt-in-your-mouth good.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup plus extra for coating): Provides a smooth sweetness and the signature snowy coating that defines Russian Tea Balls.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds a fragrant warmth that elevates the entire flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Gives structure and a delicate softness without weighing the cookies down.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the subtle flavors.
- Finely chopped walnuts or pecans (3/4 cup): Introduces a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender dough.
How to Make Russian Tea Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to create an easy cleanup. This simple prep sets you up for smooth sailing as you progress with the recipe.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Powdered Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air into the dough, ensuring your Russian Tea Balls are tender with a delicate crumb.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Mix in the vanilla extract, infusing the dough with its sweet, aromatic character. Vanilla is the quiet star here, turning every bite into a comforting experience.
Step 4: Combine Flour and Salt
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to your butter mixture. Mixing slowly prevents overworking the dough, so stir until everything is just blended to keep your cookies perfectly tender.
Step 5: Stir in the Chopped Nuts
Fold in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans to add that iconic nutty texture and flavor. Feel free to pick whichever nut you prefer or have on hand — the choice will subtly shift the character of your Russian Tea Balls.
Step 6: Shape the Dough into Balls
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, placing them about an inch apart on your prepared baking sheet. Keeping the balls evenly sized helps them bake uniformly, resulting in consistent texture and taste.
Step 7: Bake and Cool Slightly
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the bottoms just start to turn a light golden hue. This gentle browning means they’re perfectly baked through without losing their delicate softness. Once out of the oven, let them cool for about 5 minutes — just enough so they’re warm but not hot.
Step 8: Coat with Powdered Sugar Twice
While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to give them that first layer of snowy sweetness. After they cool completely, roll them again to create the classic, powdery finish that’s so inviting.
How to Serve Russian Tea Balls Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies shine simply coated in powdered sugar, but if you want to dress them up, a light dusting of cinnamon or a few fine crumbs of chopped nuts sprinkled on top can add an extra burst of flavor and a lovely rustic look. Pairing them with a thin slice of fresh orange or a sprig of mint can introduce a fresh contrast to the richness.
Side Dishes
Russian Tea Balls are perfect alongside a steaming cup of black tea, hot cocoa, or even a frothy cappuccino. Their buttery richness pairs exceptionally well with warm, comforting beverages that balance the sweetness. You might also enjoy them with a small bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, arrange these cookies in decorative tins lined with festive tissue paper or wax paper. Stacking them in clear glass jars with layers of powdered sugar adds visual charm while keeping them fresh. Another idea is to serve them on a wooden board with a few scattered nuts and a dusting of powdered sugar for an inviting, shared experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Russian Tea Balls fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay tender and flavorful for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead treat for busy days or unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to save these delicious cookies for even longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Arrange the baked and cooled tea balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their lovely texture or flavor.
Reheating
Russian Tea Balls are best enjoyed at room temperature, so gently thaw frozen cookies overnight on the counter. If you’re eager for a warm treat, pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes, but watch closely to avoid browning. Once warm, you can roll them in fresh powdered sugar again to refresh the snowy coating.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides walnuts or pecans?
Absolutely! Almonds or hazelnuts make excellent substitutions and will offer a slightly different but equally delicious flavor and texture. Feel free to pick your favorite nut or whatever you have on hand.
Are Russian Tea Balls gluten-free?
The traditional recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as is. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that work well for baking, keeping in mind that texture may vary slightly.
How long do these cookies keep their freshness?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Russian Tea Balls stay fresh and delicious for about a week. Their tender texture and sweet coating hold up wonderfully during this time.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. This actually makes rolling the dough into balls easier since it firms up in the fridge.
What’s the best way to ensure the powdered sugar coating stays put?
Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm helps the sugar stick well the first time, and then a second coating after they’ve cooled ensures that iconic snowy look and delicate sweetness that define the Russian Tea Balls Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Russian Tea Balls Recipe holds a special place in my heart, not just because of the buttery, nutty goodness but because it brings people together around warm memories and shared moments. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cozy afternoon tea, or just because, these little snowball cookies are sure to delight everyone who tastes them. Give this recipe a whirl — I promise it’ll become one of your go-to favorites before you know it.
Print
Russian Tea Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Russian Tea Balls are classic holiday cookies known for their tender, buttery texture and nutty flavor. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are rolled in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, making them perfect for festive occasions or gifting.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for coating)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated, enhancing the flavor of the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing continuously until the dough forms and is fully combined.
- Stir in Nuts: Fold in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans evenly throughout the dough, giving each cookie a delicious nutty taste and texture.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands, then place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden, indicating they are cooked through but still tender.
- First Sugar Coating: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes — while still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to adhere the first coat.
- Final Cooling and Coating: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, then roll them in powdered sugar once more for a snowy, festive finish.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts or pecans with almonds or hazelnuts based on your preference.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.
- These cookies make excellent holiday gifts and are perfect for winter celebrations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Russian-American
