Russian Tea Cakes: 7 Ways to Enjoy Snowball Cookies

Oh, let me tell you about Russian Tea Cakes, or as I like to call them, Snowball Cookies! These little bites of heaven are incredibly buttery and melt in your mouth, like a soft snowfall on a quiet winter’s day. The first time I made these was during a cozy holiday gathering at my aunt’s house. The aroma of toasted pecans mixed with the sweet scent of powdered sugar filled the air, and I couldn’t help but sneak one (or two) before they were even rolled in that snowy coating!

Every time I bake these cookies, it takes me back to those cherished moments in the kitchen with my family, laughing and sharing stories while the cookies were baking. The best part? They’re so simple to make, and they always impress guests during the holidays. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they’re a staple in my kitchen. Let’s dive into making these delightful treats!

Ingredients for Russian Tea Cakes (Snowball Cookies)

• 1 cup (224g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1½ cups (173g) powdered sugar, divided
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2¼ cups (293g) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (85g) finely chopped nuts (toasted pecans work great)

How to Prepare Russian Tea Cakes (Snowball Cookies)

Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

First things first, let’s get that oven fired up! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Trust me, this step is key to preventing any sticky situations later on!

Make the Dough

Now, let’s dive into making that delicious dough! In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter with ½ cup (58g) of powdered sugar until it’s smooth and creamy—think of it like a fluffy cloud! Once it’s looking good, mix in the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Oh, that smell is heavenly!

Next, you’ll want to add in the 2¼ cups (293g) of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix it on low until a dough forms; don’t overdo it! Finally, gently stir in the ¾ cup (85g) of finely chopped toasted pecans. These nuts are the secret heroes of these cookies!

Shape and Chill

Okay, here comes the fun part! Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into little balls. Just roll them gently, and they’ll form beautifully. Once you’ve got your balls of dough, pop them in the fridge for about 1 hour. Chilling the dough is super important because it helps the cookies retain their shape while baking. So, don’t skip this step!

Bake the Cookies

After an hour of patience (I know, it’s tough!), it’s time to bake! Place the chilled dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1–2 inches of space between each one. Bake for 7-10 minutes, but keep an eye on them! The bottoms should be lightly golden, while the tops remain pale. Remember, we want those soft, melt-in-your-mouth vibes!

Sugar Coating

Once your cookies are out of the oven, let them cool for just a few minutes until they’re warm but not too hot to handle. Now comes the best part: roll them in the remaining 1 cup (115g) of powdered sugar. This will give them that classic snowy finish we all love! For an extra special touch, let them cool completely and roll them in powdered sugar again. It’s all about that fluffy sweetness!

Tips for Success with Russian Tea Cakes (Snowball Cookies)

Alright, let’s make sure your Russian Tea Cakes turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some handy tips to keep in mind while you’re whipping up these delightful treats.

Don’t Skip the Chilling

As I mentioned before, chilling the dough is crucial! It helps the cookies keep their shape while baking. If you’re in a rush, I get it—sometimes we just want to bake! But trust me, take that hour. It’s a game changer!

Watch the Baking Time

Keep a close eye on those cookies as they bake. Every oven is different! You want them to be lightly golden on the bottom, but the tops should stay pale. If they get too brown, they’ll lose that melt-in-your-mouth texture we love!

Perfect Powdered Sugar Coating

For that beautiful snowy finish, make sure you roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re still warm. This ensures the sugar sticks perfectly. And hey, rolling them again once they’re completely cool? Totally worth it for that extra sweetness!

Experiment with Nuts

While toasted pecans are my go-to, feel free to play around with other nuts! Walnuts or almonds can bring a delightful twist. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend into the dough nicely.

Store Them Right

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week! Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid any sticking. If they last that long, that is! 😉

With these tips, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your Russian Tea Cakes! Happy baking!

Variations on Russian Tea Cakes (Snowball Cookies)

Now, let’s have some fun with these delightful little cookies! Russian Tea Cakes are super versatile, and you can easily swap out ingredients or add new flavors to keep things fresh and exciting. Here are a few variations I’ve tried that you might love:

Nutty Alternatives

While toasted pecans are my favorite, don’t hesitate to experiment with other nuts! Chopped walnuts or almonds can bring a different texture and flavor profile. For a tropical twist, try using chopped macadamia nuts for a rich, buttery taste.

Add Some Spice

If you’re looking to jazz things up, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. Just ¼ teaspoon can bring a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery essence of the cookies. You could even mix in some cardamom for an exotic touch!

Chocolate Lovers Rejoice

Want to make these cookies even more decadent? You can fold in some mini chocolate chips or chunks into the dough. The melting chocolate adds a luscious surprise in every bite. Just make sure to keep the amount moderate, so it doesn’t overpower the delicate flavors!

Citrus Zing

For a refreshing twist, try adding some lemon or orange zest to the dough. Just a teaspoon will brighten up the cookies and add a lovely, fragrant note. It’s like a burst of sunshine with each bite!

Gluten-Free Option

If you’re looking to make these cookies gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture. They’ll still be melt-in-your-mouth delicious!

With these variations, you can keep your Russian Tea Cakes exciting and tailored to your taste. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Nutritional Information for Russian Tea Cakes (Snowball Cookies)

So, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each delightful Russian Tea Cake, or Snowball Cookie, you indulge in:

• Calories: 99
• Fat: 6.1 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Sodium: 29.9 mg
• Carbohydrates: 10.2 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Sugar: 4.5 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 12.2 mg

These cookies are not just a treat for your taste buds but also pack a bit of energy! While they might not be the healthiest option out there, let’s be honest—every once in a while, a little indulgence is worth it, especially during the holidays. Enjoy your baking and those sweet moments with family and friends!

FAQs About Russian Tea Cakes (Snowball Cookies)

Q1. How should I store my Russian Tea Cakes?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. I like to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. But let’s be real—if they last that long, you’ve got some serious self-control!

Q2. Can I freeze Russian Tea Cakes?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature and give them a little roll in powdered sugar for that fresh, snowy look.

Q3. What can I use instead of pecans?
If you’re not a fan of pecans or just want to try something different, walnuts or almonds work wonderfully too! Just chop them finely so they blend into the dough nicely. You could even mix different nuts together for a nutty surprise!

Q4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. I’ve tried this with great success, and they’ll still be just as melt-in-your-mouth delicious!

Q5. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Keep an eye on those cookies! They should be lightly golden on the bottom while the tops remain pale. Remember, we want that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, so don’t let them get too brown!

Q6. Can I add flavors like chocolate or spices?
Oh, you bet! Feel free to fold in some mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist, or add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, cozy flavors. Just remember to keep the balance so that the delicate taste of the cookies shines through!

These FAQs should help you tackle any questions that pop up while you’re baking these scrumptious Russian Tea Cakes. Enjoy every delicious moment!

Why You’ll Love Russian Tea Cakes (Snowball Cookies)

• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip these up in no time!
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Goodness: The buttery texture and delicate sweetness make every bite feel like a warm hug.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon tea, these cookies fit right in!
• Versatile Flavor Options: You can easily customize them with different nuts, spices, or even chocolate for a unique twist!
• Impress Your Guests: Their snowy appearance and delightful taste will have everyone asking for the recipe!
• Make Ahead and Freeze: You can prepare a batch in advance and freeze them for a last-minute treat!

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