Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and ½ cup powdered sugar using a hand or stand mixer. Mix until the texture is light, fluffy, and pale in color — this usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Then, add vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, a little at a time, mixing on low speed until combined. The dough will appear slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed between your fingers.
Step 4: Fold in the Nuts
Now, stir in the finely chopped nuts using a spatula or wooden spoon. The nuts give the cookies their signature nutty flavor and a slight crunch. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. These cookies don’t spread much while baking, so they can be placed fairly close together.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale — don’t overbake, as that can make them dry.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Roll in Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While they’re still warm (but not hot), gently roll them in powdered sugar. The warmth helps the sugar stick beautifully to the surface.
Step 8: Cool Completely and Roll Again
Once the cookies have cooled completely, roll them in powdered sugar one more time to give them that perfect snowy look. This double coating adds both sweetness and charm.
🍪 Tips for Perfect Russian Tea Balls
- Choose your nuts wisely: Walnuts and pecans give a rich, buttery flavor, while almonds add a mild sweetness. You can toast the nuts before chopping to deepen the flavor.
- Don’t skip the double sugar coating: The first coat sticks, and the second makes them look like perfect snowballs.
- Storage: These cookies store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months.
☕ Serving Ideas
Russian Tea Balls are delightful served with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa. They also make a charming addition to holiday cookie trays or gift boxes. Their delicate sweetness and crumbly texture make them irresistible for any occasion.
✨ Final Thoughts
Russian Tea Balls are proof that simplicity can be elegant. With just a few pantry staples and some careful mixing, you can create cookies that taste as if they came from a European bakery. Whether you call them Russian Tea Balls, Snowball Cookies, or Butterballs, one thing’s certain — these little powdered gems will melt hearts as quickly as they melt in your mouth.
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