Russian Tea Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Russian Tea Balls are simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. The combination of unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract creates a rich, tender cookie that literally melts in your mouth. Coated with a generous dusting of powdered sugar, they have a soft, crumbly texture that’s irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday celebration or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until fully incorporated. The dough will be soft but should hold together.
5. Scoop out small portions of the dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden on the bottom.
7. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
8. While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat them thoroughly.
9. Allow the cookies to cool completely and then roll them in powdered sugar again for an extra sweet finish.
10. Enjoy your Russian Tea Balls with a warm cup of tea or coffee!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 12-15 minutes
• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Russian Tea Balls: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a crunchy twist that complements the buttery texture of the cookies.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: If you want to change up the traditional powdered sugar coating, you can roll the cookies in a mix of cinnamon and sugar for a spiced variation.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After coating with powdered sugar, drizzle the cookies with melted chocolate for an added touch of indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store Russian Tea Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze wonderfully! To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these cookies, as they’re best enjoyed at room temperature. If you freeze them, simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter for this recipe so you can control the amount of salt. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe or omit it.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Russian Tea Balls ahead of time. In fact, they tend to taste even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store them in an airtight container.

Can I add nuts to the dough?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts make a lovely addition to the dough. You can add about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the dough for a delicious nutty flavor.

Are Russian Tea Balls gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so they are not gluten-free. However, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend if you want a gluten-free version.

How can I make these cookies a little less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the dough slightly, or choose not to roll them in powdered sugar after baking. However, the sugar coating is a key part of the traditional texture and flavor.

How long do Russian Tea Balls last?

These cookies stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature, as long as they’re stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Russian Tea Balls?

Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Can I use other extracts instead of vanilla?

Yes, you can experiment with other extracts, like almond or hazelnut, for a slightly different flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I make these cookies without rolling them in powdered sugar?

You can skip the powdered sugar coating if you prefer, but it is a signature feature of these cookies and adds a wonderful sweetness and texture.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Absolutely! You can easily double or triple this recipe if you’re baking for a crowd. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if necessary.

Conclusion

Russian Tea Balls are a timeless holiday treat that always bring comfort and joy. Their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet powdered sugar coating make them the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray. With just a few simple ingredients, these cookies come together quickly and are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home, just like they are in mine. Enjoy!

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