Description
Learn how to make buttery Russian Tea Balls with nuts and powdered sugar. A delightful treat for holidays, gifting, or tea time!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Prepare for Baking:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Stir in finely chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop out dough and roll into 1-inch balls using your hands.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between them.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar:
- While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat.
- Place on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Roll again in powdered sugar before serving for an extra snowy look
Notes
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before shaping.
- Use High-Quality Butter: This enhances the flavor and texture of the cookies.
- Double Roll for Presentation: Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar creates a festive, snowy appearance.
- Even Sizing: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
- Experiment with Nuts: Substitute walnuts or pecans with almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10minutes
- Cook Time: 15minutes