Russian Tea Balls, also known as Russian Tea Cakes, Snowball Cookies, or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are delicate, buttery treats rolled in powdered sugar to resemble little snowballs. They are a holiday classic, but their charm extends year-round. These cookies are rich yet light, with a crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of finely chopped nuts gives them a nutty sweetness and a satisfying bite.
Their history is layered, with variations found across cultures. In Russia and Eastern Europe, they were enjoyed alongside tea, while in Mexico they are known as Polvorones or Bolas de Nieve. Regardless of origin, they symbolize tradition, celebration, and comfort. Today, they remain a nostalgic favorite, often passed down through generations as a staple of festive baking.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
INSTRUCTION
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, vanilla extract, and ½ cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Fold in nuts: Stir in the chopped walnuts or pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are firm but not browned.
- Coat in sugar: Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly. While still warm, roll them in powdered sugar. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
SERVINGS
This recipe yields 24–30 cookies, depending on the size of the balls.
NOTE
Russian Tea Balls are best enjoyed fresh, when their crumbly texture and powdered sugar coating are at their peak. They store well in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them ideal for holiday gifting or preparing ahead of gatherings.
The recipe emphasizes simplicity and tradition. Butter provides richness, flour creates structure, nuts add flavor and texture, and powdered sugar delivers sweetness. The double rolling in sugar is what gives them their signature snowy appearance.
These cookies embody the joy of festive baking. They are small, delicate, and perfect for sharing, reminding us that even the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether served at a holiday table, enjoyed with tea, or gifted to loved ones, Russian Tea Balls carry with them a sense of nostalgia, warmth, and celebration.