Russian Tea Balls (Snowball Cookies)
Introduction
Russian Tea Balls are tender, buttery cookies that simply melt in your mouth. Lightly sweetened and filled with finely chopped walnuts, they’re dusted in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar that gives them their signature look. Known by many names—Snowball Cookies, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Butterballs—these delightful confections are a staple during the holidays, often served with tea or coffee. Their delicate texture, nutty crunch, and melt-away sweetness make them an irresistible treat for gatherings or gift-giving.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Despite their name, Russian Tea Balls have a fascinatingly mixed heritage. These cookies likely originated in European kitchens, where variations of nut-filled butter cookies were served at weddings and special occasions. The term “Russian Tea Cakes” became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century, possibly inspired by the tradition of tea service in Russian culture.
They are also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies, Italian Wedding Cookies, or Snowballs, reflecting how this simple recipe has traveled and been embraced worldwide. Today, they remain a holiday classic, symbolizing togetherness, celebration, and the comforting sweetness of home-baked traditions.
Ingredients Quantity
- 2 cups butter, softened
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for rolling and coating
Optional Additions
- Different nuts: Try pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for variety.
- Flavor twist: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon.
- Festive flair: Roll in colored sanding sugar or edible glitter for holidays.
- Chocolate lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies.
- Citrus zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright note.
Tips for Success
- Use softened butter—it’s key for the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Chop nuts finely for a smooth, even dough and better consistency.
- Don’t overbake—the cookies should remain pale; golden bottoms are perfect.
- Cool slightly before rolling in sugar to help the coating stick.
- Double roll in powdered sugar: once while warm and once after cooling completely.
- Store in airtight containers—these cookies stay fresh and delicious for up to 10 days.
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 325°F (165°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed butter mixture.
- Add nuts: Stir in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
- Shape cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place 1½ inches apart on prepared cookie sheets.
- Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, or until set but not browned.
- Cool and coat: Let cookies cool slightly on a wire rack, then roll in powdered sugar. Once completely cool, roll them a second time for a beautiful snowy finish.
Description
These Russian Tea Balls are delightfully rich yet light. Each bite begins with a delicate crumble that gives way to a buttery texture and a satisfying walnut crunch. The sweetness from the powdered sugar balances perfectly with the mild nuttiness, creating an elegant cookie that feels festive and nostalgic all at once. Perfect for Christmas trays, afternoon tea, or edible gifts, they symbolize warmth, hospitality, and the joy of sharing something handmade.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx. 1 inch in diameter)
- Calories: ~140
- Total Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
- Sodium: 55 mg
Conclusion
Russian Tea Balls are a timeless classic that beautifully bridge cultures through the universal love of butter, nuts, and sugar. They’re a comforting reminder of festive gatherings and family kitchens filled with laughter, warmth, and the aroma of holiday baking. Whether known as Snowballs or Wedding Cookies, these gems are a must-have for your dessert table and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Recommendation
Serve these cookies with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for the perfect cozy treat. For holiday gifts, package them in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon. You can also pair them with other traditional cookies like shortbread or biscotti for an elegant dessert spread.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoying a few of these buttery bites can fit beautifully into a balanced lifestyle. To lighten the recipe while keeping its charm:
- Use unsalted butter and a touch less sugar.
- Swap half of the flour for whole wheat pastry flour for extra fiber.
- Choose heart-healthy nuts like almonds or pecans.
- Dust lightly instead of double-rolling in sugar.
By savoring them mindfully and sharing them generously, you can embrace the spirit of indulgence and togetherness—proving that a little sweetness can nourish both body and soul.