Russian Tea Balls, also known as snowball cookies or Mexican wedding cookies, are a delightful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any gathering. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, dusted with powdered sugar, are a nostalgic favorite for many, often evoking memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.
With their rich nutty flavor and soft texture, they are perfect for holiday cookie platters, cozy tea times, or as a special gift for loved ones. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, let’s dive into this timeless recipe that has graced tables for generations.
Classic Russian Tea Balls Recipe
Ingredients :
- 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped (or any preferred nuts)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions :
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cookies.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract, blending until combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense cookies.
- Incorporate Nuts: Gently fold in the finely chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 1.5 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
- Cool and Coat: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While still warm, roll them in powdered sugar until completely coated. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before rolling in powdered sugar again for an extra sweet touch.
Conclusion :
Classic Russian Tea Balls are more than just a cookie; they encapsulate the essence of celebration and comfort. Their buttery, crumbly texture paired with the sweet dusting of powdered sugar creates a delightful contrast that pleases the palate. These cookies are incredibly versatile, perfect for holiday gatherings, tea parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon. The joy of sharing these treats with loved ones enhances the experience, making every bite a cherished memory.
Consider trying variations with different nuts or even adding a touch of citrus zest for a unique twist. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, Russian Tea Balls are sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire, bridging generations and cultures through their timeless flavor. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the delightful art of cookie-making. Your family and friends will undoubtedly appreciate the love and tradition behind these irresistible treats!
