Russian Tea Cakes Recipe

This Russian Tea Cakes recipe makes classic buttery cookies rolled in powdered sugar, also known as snowball cookies or Mexican wedding cookies. With a nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are perfect for Christmas, holiday cookie exchanges, or afternoon tea. Made with simple ingredients like flour, butter, walnuts, and vanilla, they are easy to bake and ideal for festive gatherings or gifting.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ lb (16 Tbsp) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
• ½ cup powdered sugar (plus 2 cups more for rolling)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt

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Instructions

Step 1: Quick Prep

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, ½ cup powdered sugar, and vanilla with an electric hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the flour and salt. Mix until no dry flour remains (the dough will be thick and slightly crumbly).
3. Using a spatula, fold in the toasted walnuts until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

1. Scoop the dough with a small cookie scoop or spoon and roll into 1-inch balls.
2. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing at least 1 inch apart.
3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.

Step 4: Coat with Sugar

1. While cookies are still warm, roll them in 1 cup powdered sugar and place on a platter to cool completely.
2. Once cooled, roll the cookies again in the remaining powdered sugar to create perfect snowball-like cookies.

Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic holiday cookies with a buttery, nutty flavor.
• Light, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.
• Known as Russian Tea Cakes, Snowball Cookies, or Mexican Wedding Cookies, they are perfect for festive gatherings.
• Simple ingredients and easy preparation make them ideal for holiday baking or gift-giving.

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Tips

• Toast the nuts for the best flavor and aroma.
• Roll cookies in powdered sugar twice for that perfect snowy coating.
• Don’t overbake; cookies should be pale on top with lightly golden bottoms.
• Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Nut options: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts.
• Flavor twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• Nut-free version: Leave out nuts or replace with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

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FAQs

Q: Why are my Russian Tea Cakes dry?
A: They may have been baked too long or had too much flour added. Measure flour correctly for best results.

Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes! Freeze baked cookies (without the final sugar coating) for up to 2 months. Roll in powdered sugar after thawing.

Q: Do I need to chill the dough?
A: Not usually, but if your kitchen is very warm, chilling for 30 minutes can help hold the shape.

Q: Can I make them without nuts?
A: Yes, but the nuts add texture and flavor. For a nut-free version, replace with seeds or leave plain.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Perfect for holiday cookie trays, tea parties, or gifting in festive tins.
• Serve alongside coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• Pair with other Christmas cookies like gingerbread or shortbread for a dessert platter.
• Wrap in cellophane bags with ribbons for homemade holiday gifts.