If there’s one cookie that always makes an appearance in our kitchen during the holidays, it’s Russian Tea Balls. Also known by names like Snowball Cookies or Mexican Wedding Cookies, these tender little bites are buttery, nutty, and rolled in a cloud of powdered sugar—making them look just as magical as they taste.
They’re old-fashioned in the best way: a recipe passed down from grandmothers and great-aunts, scribbled in the margins of cookbooks and cherished at every cookie exchange. These cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re tradition.
So if you’re craving a cookie that melts in your mouth, satisfies that not-too-sweet tooth, and makes a stunning gift, you’re in for a treat.
💬 A Sweet Bite of Nostalgia
I remember the first time I made these as a child with my grandmother. The scent of vanilla and toasted walnuts filled the kitchen, and I was covered in powdered sugar by the end of it. We’d stack the cookies in festive tins, tie a red ribbon on top, and hand them out to neighbors with mugs of cider. To this day, I can’t see one of these cookies without thinking of those joyful afternoons.
📝 Ingredients for Russian Tea Balls
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter, softened | 2 cups (4 sticks) |
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Chopped walnuts | 4 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 4 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Powdered sugar | For rolling |
📌 Tip: Make sure your butter is fully softened before mixing for the fluffiest results.
👨🍳 How to Make Russian Tea Balls (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cream Butter, Sugar & Vanilla
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until light and fluffy. This step is key—it’s where that melt-in-your-mouth texture begins!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt, then slowly add this mixture to the butter mixture. Stir until just combined.
Step 3: Add the Nuts
Fold in the chopped walnuts (or pecans, if you prefer) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Roll Into Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them 1½ inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 20 minutes, or until the bottoms are just turning golden. They won’t spread much, so no need to worry about spacing too far apart.
Step 6: Cool & Coat
Let the cookies cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. While still slightly warm, roll them in powdered sugar. Once fully cooled, give them another generous roll for that iconic snowy look.
🎁 Gifting Ideas: Cookies That Wow
These cookies make fantastic holiday gifts! Here are some ideas to make them even more special:
- 🎀 Stack them in a clear cellophane bag and tie with a ribbon
- 🎄 Use holiday tins or mini mason jars with handwritten tags
- 🍪 Create a cookie sampler box with a variety of treats
- 📦 Add them to care packages for friends, family, or coworkers
💡 Pro tip: Include a small card with the cookie’s history or your favorite holiday memory attached to the recipe!
🥜 Variations to Try
Want to put a little spin on tradition? These variations work beautifully:
- Nut Swap: Try pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of walnuts
- Almond Extract: Add ¼ tsp almond extract for a richer flavor
- Chocolate Kiss Center: Press a mini chocolate kiss into the center before rolling into a ball (like a hidden surprise!)
- Cocoa Powder: Mix 1 tbsp cocoa into the dough for a chocolate twist
❄️ Storage Tips
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
- Fridge: They’ll last 2-3 weeks, but may lose some softness
- Freezer: Freeze baked (uncoated) cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw and roll in fresh powdered sugar before serving.
🍽️ When to Serve
These cookies are perfect for:
- Holiday cookie exchanges
- Christmas Eve dessert trays
- Winter tea parties or book clubs
- Afternoon coffee treats
- Homemade edible gifts
✨ Final Thoughts
There’s something timeless and heartwarming about Russian Tea Balls. Whether you call them snowballs, wedding cookies, or tea cakes, they deliver on every level—flavor, texture, beauty, and nostalgia.
Make a batch, share them with someone you love, and keep a few for yourself (trust me, you’ll want to).
Let the powdered sugar fly and the holiday memories begin. 🎄
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