Russian Tea Cakes, also known as Snowball Cookies or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a delightful and classic treat that’s loved for their delicate, buttery texture and sweet, nutty flavor. This recipe guides you through making these round, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar that gives them their signature snowball-like appearance. Perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a gift during festive occasions, Russian Tea Cakes are a timeless favorite. These cookies are simple to prepare, yet their rich, nutty taste and crumbly texture make them an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to making cookies, Russian Tea Cakes are a straightforward and rewarding recipe that’s sure to bring a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to any occasion. Enjoy the process of baking these charming cookies, and the delightful taste of tradition in every bite.
1-Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2-In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3-Stir in the vanilla extract.
4-Gradually blend in the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts.
5-Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
6-Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
7-Remove from the oven and while still warm, roll the cookies in additional powdered sugar.
8-Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack, then roll them again in powdered sugar for a generous coating.
9-Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container.
Our Classic Russian Tea Cakes are the epitome of sweet simplicity, offering a buttery, nutty treat that's sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. These delightful cookies are not only easy to make but also perfect for gifting, serving at gatherings, or enjoying as a personal treat. Dive into the tradition of making these beloved cookies and enjoy the rich flavors and tender texture that make Russian Tea Cakes a cherished classic.
Nut Variations: While walnuts or pecans are traditional, you can experiment with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for different flavors.
Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a hint of spice.
Handling Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it for about 30 minutes before shaping to make it easier to work with.
Uniform Size: Use a small cookie scoop to ensure all your tea cakes are uniform in size and bake evenly.
Double Dusting: For an extra snowy appearance, make sure to double-dust the cookies with powdered sugar as instructed; once while they’re still warm and again once cooled. This technique ensures a lovely thick coating that enhances both their look and taste.