These Russian Tea Balls are a beloved holiday treat—buttery, soft, nutty, and delicately dusted with powdered sugar. Also known as snowballs or Mexican wedding cookies , these little bites have been passed down through generations for good reason: they’re simple, elegant, and totally addictive.
A must-have on any holiday cookie tray!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧈 Buttery & Rich: Made with real butter for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 🌰 Nutty Flavor Boost: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add depth and crunch.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Just mix, roll, bake, and dust—no mixer required!
- ❄️ Powdered Sugar Magic: Adds sweetness and a snowy finish perfect for Christmas.
- 🎄 Holiday Staple: A classic favorite that belongs on every festive cookie platter.
Ingredients (Makes about 24–30 cookies):
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter , softened (do not melt)
- ½ cup powdered sugar , plus more for rolling
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt (optional – if using unsalted butter)
- ¾ cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds – toasted for extra flavor if desired)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Baking Sheet
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) .
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat:
- Softened butter until smooth
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract
- Mix well until light and fluffy
This creates the sweet, buttery base that makes these cookies so irresistible.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir in:
- Flour
- Salt (if using)
Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Then fold in:
- Finely chopped nuts
This gives each bite a subtle crunch and deepens the flavor.
Step 4: Shape into Balls
Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls .
Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes , or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set—but still soft.
They should not brown too much—they firm up as they cool.
Step 6: Cool Slightly & Roll in Sugar
Let the baked tea balls cool for 2–3 minutes on the pan.
While still warm, gently roll each ball in a bowl of powdered sugar to coat completely.
Let cool fully before adding a second dusting (optional), for that snowy finish.
Step 7: Store & Serve
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week .
For best results, re-dust with powdered sugar before serving if needed.
Serve with coffee, hot tea, or milk—just like Mom used to make.
Tips for Success:
- 🌰 Toast the Nuts: For richer flavor, toast the chopped nuts in the oven for 5–8 minutes before adding to the dough.
- 🧊 Chill Dough If Sticky: If the dough becomes too soft while shaping, chill it for 10–15 minutes.
- 🍪 Make Ahead Magic: These keep well and can be made days in advance.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Freeze uncooked dough balls and bake straight from frozen—add 1–2 minutes to baking time.
- 🧁 Double the Batch: They disappear fast—make extra for gifting or holiday trays.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect alongside eggnog, chai, or cocoa.
- Ideal for Christmas cookie exchanges, school parties, or family gatherings.
- Great in gift tins or wrapped in cellophane with a ribbon.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, makes 24 servings):
(Without double coating – approximate values)
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~8g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~4g
These Russian Tea Balls are a true holiday treasure—soft, rich, and full of buttery warmth. With their delicate crumb and snowy powdered sugar dusting—they’re a cookie that brings back memories with every bite.
