Name: Russian Tea Cakes Snowball: 7 Irresistible Secrets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490276H25M43S
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: Russian
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans); Additional powdered sugar for dusting

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Russian Tea Cakes Snowball are delightful, buttery cookies rolled in powdered sugar that evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. These treats melt in your mouth, making them a favorite during the holidays and special occasions. With their tender crumb and nutty flavor, they are also known as Snowball Cookies or Mexican Wedding Cookies. Let’s dive into this classic recipe and discover the secrets to creating these scrumptious cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Russian Tea Cakes Snowball

This classic cookie recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Here are six reasons why you’ll love making Russian Tea Cakes Snowball:

Quick Prep: Ready in just 34 minutes, perfect for last-minute holiday treats.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of butter and nuts creates a rich, nutty flavor.
Versatile: Easily customizable with different nuts like walnuts or pecans.
Perfect for Sharing: Makes 24 cookies, ideal for gatherings and parties.
Melting Texture: These cookies melt in your mouth, providing a delightful experience.
Tradition: Enjoy a taste of Traditional Russian Tea Cookies that have stood the test of time.

Ingredients for Russian Tea Cakes Snowball

Gather these items:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Additional powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Russian Tea Cakes Snowball Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 6: Gently fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Take small amounts of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
Step 10: While still warm, roll the cookies in additional powdered sugar to coat them generously.

Russian Tea Cakes Snowball: 7 Irresistible Secrets - Russian Tea Cakes Snowball - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Russian Tea Cakes Snowball

Keep these in mind:

Store cookies in an airtight container for freshness.
These cookies can be made ahead of time and frozen.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.

Best Ways to Serve Russian Tea Cakes Snowball

There are many delightful ways to enjoy Russian Tea Cakes Snowball:

Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Pair with a light fruit salad for a refreshing dessert option.
As part of a holiday cookie platter featuring other Holiday Snowball Treats.

How to Store and Reheat Russian Tea Cakes Snowball

Store your baked cookies in an airtight container for up to one week. They also freeze well; simply thaw before serving. This makes them perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Russian Tea Cakes Snowball

What’s the secret to perfect Russian Tea Cakes Snowball?

The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients and proper mixing. Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for a light texture. Using finely chopped nuts enhances the flavor and adds the right crunch.

Can I make Russian Tea Cakes Snowball ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage. This way, you can bake them fresh whenever you like!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Russian Tea Cakes Snowball?

To avoid common pitfalls, measure your flour accurately and don’t overmix the dough. Chilling the dough can also prevent spreading during baking, ensuring they hold their shape.

Variations of Russian Tea Cakes Snowball You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

Substitute pecans for other nuts, like hazelnuts or almonds, for a different flavor.
Add chocolate chips for a rich twist on this classic cookie.
Experiment with flavor extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, for a unique taste.
Make gluten-free versions using almond flour or gluten-free flour blends.

For more delicious recipes, check out our desserts category or try making easy cinnamon rolls for a delightful breakfast treat. If you’re interested in the history of these cookies, you can read more about Russian Tea Cakes on The Spruce Eats.