Russian Tea Cakes: A Buttery, Nutty, and Snowy Delight

Russian Tea Cakes are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that have been enjoyed for generations. These buttery, nut-filled treats are rolled in powdered sugar, giving them a snowy appearance, which makes them perfect for holidays and special occasions. Also known as Snowball Cookies, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Butterballs, these classic cookies are simple to make but incredibly delicious.

Their rich, crumbly texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor make them a favorite alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering, a wedding, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, Russian Tea Cakes are an easy yet elegant addition to any dessert table.

Equipment Needed

To make perfect Russian Tea Cakes, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – Helps to cream butter and sugar to the right consistency.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accurate measurements.
• Baking sheet – Provides even baking.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Wire rack – For cooling the cookies evenly.
• Sifter or fine mesh sieve – Helps coat the cookies evenly in powdered sugar.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
• ½ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the cookies without making them too dense.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans – Adds a nutty crunch.

For the Powdered Sugar Coating:

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Gives the cookies their signature snowy look.

How to Make Russian Tea Cakes

Follow these steps for the perfect batch of Russian Tea Cakes!

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This helps create the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined. Then, fold in the finely chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The mixture may look crumbly, but that’s normal!

Step 3: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading and helps them hold their shape.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them about an inch apart on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are firm and the bottoms are lightly golden. Do not overbake—these cookies should remain pale.

Step 6: Coat in Powdered Sugar
Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. This helps the sugar stick better. Once completely cooled, roll them again for a second coating.

Tips for the Best Russian Tea Cakes

• Chop the nuts finely to ensure an even texture.
• Use room temperature butter for a smooth and creamy dough.
• Chill the dough before baking to prevent spreading.
• Double coat with powdered sugar for the perfect snowy finish.
• Store them properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Why You’ll Love These Russian Tea Cakes

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s light yet rich.
• Perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness.
• Simple ingredients and easy preparation.
• Great for holidays, weddings, or everyday treats.
• Pairs wonderfully with tea, coffee, or hot cocoa.

The Science Behind Their Unique Texture

The high butter content and absence of eggs make Russian Tea Cakes exceptionally tender. Unlike cookies with eggs, which create a chewier texture, these rely on butter and powdered sugar for a delicate, crumbly bite. The nuts add both flavor and structure, ensuring the cookies hold their shape while remaining soft and buttery.

The Magic of Russian Tea Cakes

The magic of these cookies lies in their simplicity and elegance. Despite their minimal ingredients, they deliver a satisfying, buttery flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth quality. Their snowy, powdered sugar coating makes them festive and visually appealing, adding to their charm. These cookies have been cherished for centuries, proving that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most beloved.

Storage Tips

To keep your cookies fresh and delicious:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container.
• Re-roll in powdered sugar before serving if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different nuts?
Yes! Walnuts and pecans are traditional, but you can also use almonds, hazelnuts, or even pistachios.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend.

Why did my cookies spread too much?
This happens if the butter was too soft when mixing or if the dough wasn’t chilled long enough. Refrigerate the dough before baking to prevent spreading.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! These cookies taste even better the next day and store well for up to a week.

Conclusion

Russian Tea Cakes are a timeless classic, loved for their buttery, nutty flavor and delicate, crumbly texture. Their festive powdered sugar coating makes them a staple during holidays, weddings, and special gatherings. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just indulging in a cozy treat, Russian Tea Cakes are the perfect bite-sized delight!