Russian Tea Balls

Russian Tea Balls : welcome to the delightful world of Russian Tea Balls! These little treats are often a beloved part of holiday celebrations and gatherings. Fluffy, sweet, and oh-so-delicious, Russian Tea Balls are perfect for those who love a melt-in-your-mouth cookie experience. They have a crunchy exterior covered in powdered sugar, while the inside is buttery and nutty. Making these treats is not only a fun activity but also a great way to create cherished memories with family and friends.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to love Russian Tea Balls. First, they are incredibly easy to make. Even if you are a beginner in the kitchen, you can whip up a batch of these cookies without any fuss. The ingredients are simple and can usually be found in your pantry.

Another reason to adore this recipe is its versatility. Russian Tea Balls can be served during the holiday season, at coffee breaks, or just as a sweet treat any time of year. They are perfect for sharing with friends or giving as gifts.

The best part? They are delicious! The blend of nuts and butter creates a unique flavor that is hard to resist. Plus, with that snowy coating of powdered sugar, they look festive and inviting. It’s hard not to smile when you see these cookies on the table!

How to Prepare Russian Tea Balls

Making Russian Tea Balls is a straightforward process. Below, you will find everything you need to know to create these delightful cookies from scratch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your cookies bake evenly.
2. Mix the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to cream the softened butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. This adds a lovely flavor to the cookies.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, finely chopped nuts, and salt. Combine these dry ingredients well.
5. Mix Everything Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Form the Cookies: Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes. They should be lightly golden on the bottoms but not browned on top.
8. Cool and Dust: Once done, remove them from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Your delicious Russian Tea Balls are now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Russian Tea Balls

Serving Russian Tea Balls is as simple as making them. You can place them on a decorative plate and serve them as a sweet treat for guests. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or a holiday gathering.

For a festive touch, consider sprinkling some extra powdered sugar on top just before serving. You can also place them in a clear jar or decorative box tied with a ribbon to give them as a gift.

How to Store Russian Tea Balls

To keep your Russian Tea Balls fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can last for up to a week at room temperature. If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.

Tips for Preparing Russian Tea Balls

1. Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. This helps it to blend more easily with the sugar for a smoother dough.
2. Chop Nuts Finely: For the best texture, chop your nuts finely. This ensures they blend well into the dough and help achieve that perfect melt-in-your-mouth feel.
3. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they are baking. They should be just lightly golden on the bottom. Overbaking can lead to a dry cookie.
4. Dusting with Sugar: For that snowy finish, cover the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm. It helps the sugar stick better.
5. Adjust Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding a touch of almond extract or lemon zest for a refreshing twist.

Variation

While the classic Russian Tea Balls recipe is already delicious, you can try these variations for a new twist:

• Chocolate Russian Tea Balls: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey flavor. You can also use chopped chocolate instead of nuts for a sweeter version.
• Spiced Russian Tea Balls: Add pumpkin spice or cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor perfect for fall.
• Dipped in Chocolate: After dusting with powdered sugar, dip half of the cookies in melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! Russian Tea Balls can be made a few days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh.

2. What type of nuts should I use?

Common options include walnuts and pecans. However, you can use any nuts you like or even skip them entirely for a nut-free version.

3. Can I freeze the dough instead of baked cookies?

Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you are ready to bake, let them thaw for a little and bake as usual.

4. Can I make these vegan?

You can substitute the butter with vegan alternatives and ensure the powdered sugar is vegan-friendly to create a tasty vegan version of Russian Tea Balls.

5. Why are they sometimes called Snowball Cookies?

They are often called Snowball Cookies because, with their powdered sugar coating, they resemble little snowballs. This festive appearance makes them a favorite during the winter months and at holiday gatherings.

In conclusion, Russian Tea Balls are a classic cookie that brings joy and comfort in each bite. They are easy to make, delightful to eat, and perfect for sharing. Whether you enjoy them with family during the holidays or gift them to friends, they are sure to be a hit. So why not gather your ingredients and give this wonderful recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!