Russian Tea Balls
These delicate, buttery cookies dusted with powdered sugar have captivated bakers worldwide for generations. What makes them particularly special is their simple ingredient list and the fact that they require no eggs—making them one of the most accessible festive treats for those with dietary restrictions.
Print
Pin
Servings: 36 cookies
Calories: 95kcal
Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing bowls
- Wire rack
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature (2 sticks)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar plus extra for rolling
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup pecans finely chopped
For Rolling
- 1 cup powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Measure all ingredients and bring butter to room temperature for 30 minutes prior to mixing. Finely chop the pecans to about 1/8 inch pieces.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy (approximately 3 minutes). Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
- Whisk together flour and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, combining on low speed until just incorporated.
- Fold in the chopped pecans using a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough between your palms to form 1-inch balls. Place them 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
- Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar, coating completely.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, then roll in powdered sugar a second time for that signature snowball appearance.
Notes
The butter's quality significantly impacts these cookies' rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Choose European-style butter with higher fat content for the most luxurious results.
Walnuts or almonds can replace pecans for different flavor profiles.
Almond extract can substitute for vanilla for a more nutty dimension.
Use gluten-free flour blend (with xanthan gum) for a gluten-free version.
Vegan butter works perfectly for dairy-free requirements.
Store in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Calories: 95kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 25mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 3g
Tried this recipe?FOLLOW ME @TastyDailyMeals and PIN this recipe