These classic Buttery Russian Tea Balls are a holiday favorite that taste like a cross between shortbread and powdered sugar heaven. Also known as snowball cookies, these buttery treats are filled with finely chopped nuts and rolled in powdered sugar for a magical finish. Perfect for cookie swaps, Christmas platters, or a cozy afternoon with coffee.
⭐️ Rating: 4.9 (over 2,100 reviews)
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 27 mins
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per cookie: 120
🧾 Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat and prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2️⃣ Cream the butter and sugar
In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3️⃣ Add dry ingredients
Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined. Stir in the chopped nuts by hand.
4️⃣ Roll and bake
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden (tops will not brown).
5️⃣ Sugar coat
Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Cool completely, then roll again for that classic snowy look.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ❄️ Holiday-perfect: The ultimate Christmas cookie!
- 🧈 Rich and buttery with just the right nutty crunch
- 🎄 Make-ahead friendly – they store beautifully for weeks
- 💡 No eggs needed – naturally egg-free treat
- 📦 Giftable – package in tins for homemade presents!
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