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Russian Tea Balls

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Classic Russian Tea Balls Recipe

Russian Tea Balls, also known as Snowball Cookies, are a delightful treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. These buttery, nutty cookies, rolled in powdered sugar, are traditionally served around the holidays and at special occasions. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle sweetness make them a favorite for cookie lovers of all ages. This recipe is easy to make with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a batch of classic Russian Tea Balls that are sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Vanilla
    In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This step ensures a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the salt and prevents any lumps in the dough.
  3. Add the Dry Ingredients to the Butter Mixture
    Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, a little at a time. Mix on low speed until the flour is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth.
  4. Stir in the Walnuts
    Fold in the finely chopped walnuts using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be sure to distribute the nuts evenly throughout the dough for a balanced flavor and texture in every cookie.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

  1. Shape the Dough into Balls
    Take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form a 1-inch ball. Place each ball about 1 1/2 inches apart on a cookie sheet. You don’t need to flatten the balls as they will naturally spread slightly while baking.
  2. Bake the Cookies
    Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the cookie sheet in the oven and bake the cookies for 20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the bottom and set on top. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft and tender.
  3. Cool the Cookies
    Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before proceeding to the next step. Cooling is important, as it allows the cookies to firm up and prevents the powdered sugar from melting when applied.

Step 3: Roll in Powdered Sugar

  1. Coat the Cookies in Powdered Sugar
    Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Once the cookies are fully cooled, roll each cookie in the powdered sugar, making sure to coat them evenly. For an extra snowy appearance, roll the cookies a second time in powdered sugar.
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Tips for the Best Russian Tea Balls

  • Soft Butter is Key: For a smooth dough, make sure your butter is softened at room temperature. If your butter is too cold, it will be difficult to cream and won’t incorporate well with the sugar.
  • Choose Fresh Nuts: Use fresh walnuts for the best flavor. Stale or old nuts can have a bitter taste that may affect the flavor of your cookies.
  • Cool Completely Before Rolling in Sugar: If the cookies are still warm when rolled in powdered sugar, the sugar will melt and become sticky. For a perfect coating, make sure the cookies are completely cool.
  • Try Different Nuts: While this recipe uses walnuts, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Each nut adds a unique flavor to the cookies, so feel free to experiment with your favorite kind.

2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Russian Tea Balls can be made a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and roll them in powdered sugar just before serving if needed.

3. How do I store Russian Tea Balls?
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Let them thaw at room temperature, then roll in powdered sugar again if necessary.

4. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This can happen if your butter is too warm or if you accidentally added too much butter. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately and use butter that is softened but not melted.

5. Can I add spices to the dough?
Absolutely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, festive flavor to these cookies. Just mix it in with the flour and salt before adding to the dough.

Enjoy your baking experience and the delightful results of these melt-in-your-mouth Russian Tea Balls! Perfect for any holiday or special occasion, they’re a sweet treat that’s always a hit.

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