Embrace the holiday season or any special occasion with a delightful treat known as “Russian Tea Balls.” These charming little confections, also called snowballs or Mexican wedding cookies, are tender, buttery, and adorned with a dusting of powdered sugar that resembles a fresh snowfall. Their nutty flavor and delicate texture make them a beloved choice for sweet indulgence. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering, a cozy winter’s evening, or simply craving a melt-in-your-mouth delight, this recipe will guide you in crafting these delightful Russian Tea Balls.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for rolling
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions :
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Vanilla and Combine:
- Mix in the pure vanilla extract, ensuring it’s fully incorporated into the butter-sugar mixture.
4. Gradually Add Flour:
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture, blending until the dough comes together. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough gently until it’s smooth and well-mixed.
5. Incorporate Chopped Nuts:
- Stir in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Form Dough Balls:
- Take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the dough balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them a little apart from each other.
7. Bake to Perfection:
- Bake the Russian Tea Balls in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are set but not yet browned.
8. Roll in Powdered Sugar:
- While the tea balls are still warm but not hot, gently roll them in powdered sugar to coat them generously. This will create a snowy appearance.
9. Cool and Re-roll:
- Allow the tea balls to cool for a few minutes, then re-roll them in powdered sugar to ensure a thick, snowy coating.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once completely cooled, arrange your Russian Tea Balls on a plate or in an airtight container. Enjoy the tender, nutty delights that are perfect for any festive occasion.
Russian Tea Balls, also known as snowballs or Mexican wedding cookies, are a delectable treat that welcomes the holiday season or any special occasion. These tender, buttery confections, dusted with powdered sugar, provide a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is both comforting and indulgent.
Russian Tea Balls are a classic choice for sweet indulgence, whether served at a festive gathering, enjoyed on a cozy winter’s evening, or savored simply because you deserve a sweet treat. Enjoy the timeless charm of these delightful creations with family and friends.