Easy Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes) Recipe

Try these classic Christmas cookies for a taste of pure bliss! Our Easy Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes, are a holiday favorite. They are soft, buttery, and have a hint of nuttiness. They’re perfect for any festive event or a cozy winter day.

These butter cookies are easy to make with just 6 ingredients. You’ll need unsalted butter, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and chopped nuts. They’re quick to prepare and make 36 cookies. This makes them a great choice for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season.

Key Takeaways

Classic Christmas cookie recipe with a light, nutty flavor
Yields 36 cookies with a prep time of 20 minutes and bake time of 15 minutes
Made with 6 simple ingredients including unsalted butter, vanilla, and chopped nuts
Coated in powdered sugar for a snowy, festive appearance
Perfect for holiday baking and sharing with family and friends

Introduction to Russian Tea Cakes History

Russian Tea Cakes, also known as Snowball Cookies, have a rich history. They span continents and cultures. These treats are famous for their powdered sugar coating, which looks like snow.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The exact origin of Russian Tea Cakes is unclear. But, they are thought to have started in Europe as a snack for tea time. They moved to Mexico with European nuns, becoming a hit at weddings. They were known as Mexican Wedding Cakes and other names.

Why They’re Called Snowball Cookies

The powdered sugar makes them look like tiny snowballs. This is why they’re called Snowball Cookies. Their winter look has made them a favorite Christmas treat.

Traditional Holiday Connection

Russian Tea Cakes are a cherished part of Christmas in many homes. They’ve been a favorite since the 1950 Betty Crocker Picture Cook Book. The recipe has been passed down through generations in the author’s family.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Snowball Cookies

Making the perfect Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes, needs a special list of ingredients. These butter cookies are a favorite during the holidays. Their delicious taste and texture come from simple, yet important ingredients.

The recipe starts with 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. Using unsalted butter lets you control the salt, making the flavors just right. To add a special touch, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract is added. It brings a warm, deep flavor to the cookies.

2 cups of all-purpose flour, sifted for a light dough
6 tablespoons of powdered sugar, for sweetness and a snowy look
1 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for crunch and flavor
More powdered sugar for coating the cookies

To make perfect Snowball Cookies, use top-quality ingredients and handle the dough gently. With these essential ingredients, you’ll create a batch of butter cookies that will impress your guests. They’ll become a special holiday tradition in your home.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the perfect batch of Easy Snowball Cookies, you’ll need some basic tools. These kitchen essentials are key to making your cookies look great every time.

Must-Have Baking Items

Medium-sized bowl for mixing the dough
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer for creaming the butter and powdered sugar
Whisk for incorporating the dry ingredients
Ungreased cookie sheets for baking
Wire rack for cooling the freshly baked cookies

Optional Tools for Better Results

While not essential, some extra baking equipment and cookie-making tools can improve your Snowball Cookie making:

Parchment paper or silicone baking mats to line the cookie sheets
Cookie scoop for portioning out the dough into uniform-sized balls

Using a stand mixer instead of a hand mixer can make the dough preparation easier. The stand mixer’s strong motor will quickly cream the butter and sugar.

With these basic baking equipment and cookie-making tools, you’re ready to make delicious Snowball Cookies. They’ll be festive and full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes, is easy and fun. Just follow these simple steps to make a batch of these classic holiday treats:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
Stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans or your preferred nuts.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Optional: Refrigerate the dough for 1 hour before baking for more tender cookies.

Once your cookies are ready, bake them for 15 to 17 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Let them cool for a few minutes. Then, roll them in an additional 2-3 cups of powdered sugar to get the classic “snowball” look.

Ingredient	Quantity
Butter	1 cup (2 sticks)
Vanilla Extract	1 teaspoon
All-Purpose Flour	2 1/4 cups
Powdered Sugar	1/2 cup (plus 2-3 cups for coating)
Pecans (or preferred nuts)	1 cup, chopped

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a batch of delicious Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes). They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you’re craving a sweet and nutty treat.

Snowball Cookies Recipe

Indulge in the delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience of Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes. This classic holiday treat is a must-try for bakers of all skill levels. Let’s dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets to perfectly baked Snowball Cookies.

Base Recipe Components

At the heart of this recipe are a few key ingredients that come together to create the perfect Snowball Cookie. You’ll need:

1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) of unsalted butter
1½ cups (187.5 g) of confectioners’ sugar, divided
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
2 cups (250 g) of all-purpose flour
1 cup (105 g) of chopped pecans
¼ teaspoon of kosher salt

Mixing Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and 1 cup (125 g) of the confectioners’ sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Next, gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Baking Guidelines

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, form the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake the Snowball Cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

While the cookies are still warm, roll them in the remaining 1/2 cup (62.5 g) of confectioners’ sugar to coat them evenly. Enjoy the delightful combination of buttery, nutty, and sweet flavors in every bite of these Snowball Cookies.

Remember, the recipe yields approximately 30 servings of Snowball Cookies, with each serving containing 127 calories. These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer-term storage, they can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Tips for Working with the Dough

Baking the perfect Snowball Cookies starts with mastering the dough handling techniques. Here are some valuable tips to ensure your cookie dough is easy to work with and yields delightful results:

If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator until it becomes easily workable. The ideal dough consistency should allow you to shape the cookies without them spreading excessively during baking.
Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion the dough into uniform-sized balls. This will help ensure even baking and a consistent appearance for your cookies.
Avoid overworking the dough, as this can lead to tough, dense cookies. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, then shape the dough into balls with a light touch.
For best results, refrigerate the shaped dough balls for about an hour before baking. This helps the cookies retain their round shape and prevents excessive spreading in the oven.

By following these cookie dough tips and Snowball Cookies dough handling techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfectly shaped, tender, and delicious Snowball Cookies every time.

“The key to making the perfect Snowball Cookies is all in the dough handling. With a few simple tricks, you can achieve the ideal texture and shape every time.”

Perfect Rolling and Shaping Techniques

Getting the snowball shape of these cookies is fun. The secret to even sizes and shapes is in how you roll the dough. Start by making 1-inch balls from the dough. This makes sure they bake evenly and look perfect.

Size and Shape Consistency

Roll each ball between your palms to get a smooth shape. Place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. This lets them spread out while baking. It makes your shaping Snowball Cookies look great.

Powdered Sugar Coating Methods

The powdered sugar coating is key for these cookies. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar right after baking. This helps the sugar stick to the soft dough. After they cool, roll them in sugar again for a thicker coat.

With a bit of practice, you’ll get the perfect snowball shape and a beautiful sugar coating. Your guests will love the look and feel of these cookies.

Baking Time and Temperature Guidelines

Creating the perfect Snowball Cookies (also known as Russian Tea Cakes) requires careful attention to baking time and temperature. You want a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center and a lightly browned, crisp edge.

The recipe suggests baking at 375°F (190°C) for 7-10 minutes. Watch closely for slightly browned bottoms. Adjust the time as needed for your oven.

To keep the cookies soft, don’t overbake them. Remove them when they’re lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This helps set their shape and texture, making them perfect Snowball Cookies.

Ingredient	Amount
Unsalted Butter	1 cup (room temperature)
All-Purpose Flour	2 cups
Finely Diced Pecans	2 cups
Granulated Sugar	1/4 cup
Powdered Sugar	2 cups

By sticking to these Snowball Cookies baking time and Russian Tea Cakes oven temperature tips, you’ll make delicious treats. They’re sure to impress your family and friends.

“The cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth and loaded with chopped pecans, then rolled in powdered sugar for the classic ‘snowball’ look.”

Nut Variations and Substitutions

Snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes, often include chopped nuts like walnuts and pecans. These nuts add texture and flavor. But, for those with nut allergies or who prefer not to eat nuts, there are tasty alternatives.

Popular Nut Choices

Walnuts: The traditional choice, providing a rich, buttery taste and crunch.
Pecans: Offering a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor compared to walnuts.
Almonds: A versatile option that can be used whole, sliced, or finely chopped.

Toasting the nuts before adding them to the dough is a good idea. It enhances their flavor and aroma.

Nut-Free Alternatives

Mini chocolate chips: A delightful substitute that adds pockets of chocolatey goodness.
Toffee bits: Providing a caramelized crunch and sweet flavor.
Crushed potato chips: An unexpected but tasty variation that brings a salty-sweet contrast.

If you choose to skip the nuts, you might need to adjust the flour. This helps keep the dough right. Try different nut-free options to find the best fit for your Snowball Cookies or nut-free Russian Tea Cakes.

Storage and Freshness Tips

Keeping your homemade Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes, fresh is key. Follow these simple tips to enjoy them for up to a week. This way, you can savor their delicious taste and texture.

To store the cookies, put them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and delicate for up to 7 days. You can also make them up to 4 days before serving. This lets the flavors blend perfectly.

For longer storage, consider freezing them. Bake the cookies and let them cool completely before freezing. Then, thaw them at room temperature and re-coat with powdered sugar for the best taste.

Store Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Cookies can be made up to 4 days in advance before serving.
Freeze uncoated cookies for up to 3 months; thaw and re-coat with powdered sugar before serving.

By following these easy tips, you can enjoy your homemade Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes) for days. They’ll stay fresh and delicious.

Freezing and Make-Ahead Instructions

For those who love freezing Russian Tea Cakes, also known as Snowball Cookies, you’ll be happy. These treats can be frozen and made ahead of time. This makes them great for busy holiday bakers or those who want to start early.

To freeze baked Snowball Cookies, skip the powdered sugar before freezing. Cool them, then put them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, thaw them in the fridge and roll in powdered sugar for that snowy look.

You can also freeze the dough balls before baking. This way, you can have freshly baked Snowball Cookies whenever you want. Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, put them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When baking, add 1-2 minutes to the original time.

Freezing Russian Tea Cakes or Snowball Cookies saves time. It ensures you have these tasty treats ready for the holiday season and beyond.

“Freezing the dough or baked cookies is a game-changer for anyone who loves to have homemade Snowball Cookies on hand without the hassle of last-minute baking.”

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes, are usually easy to make. But, some common problems can happen. Knowing these issues and how to fix them will help your cookies turn out great every time.

Texture Problems

Crumbly or dry Snowball Cookies often come from too much mixing. This overmixing can make the flour’s gluten develop too much. To fix this, don’t overwork the dough. Stop mixing as soon as everything is just combined.

Baking Issues

Another issue is cookies that spread too much while baking. This can make them lose their round shape. To solve this, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the dough firm up and prevents spreading.

If your cookies are dry or too brown on the bottom, adjust your baking settings. Lower the oven temperature by about 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, check the cookies a minute or two earlier to avoid overbaking. Watch them closely towards the end to get the right texture.

FAQ

How many cookies does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes 36 cookies.

What are the total prep and cook times for this recipe?

It takes 50 minutes to make these cookies. Prep time is 20 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes.

What are the key ingredients in this recipe?

The main ingredients are unsalted butter, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and chopped nuts.

What tools and equipment are needed to make these cookies?

You’ll need a medium bowl, electric mixer, whisk, and ungreased cookie sheets. A wire rack for cooling is also important. Optional tools include parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and a cookie scoop for even sizes.

What is the origin of Russian Tea Cakes, also known as Snowball Cookies?

The exact origin of Russian Tea Cakes, also known as Snowball Cookies, is unknown. They likely come from Europe. European nuns brought them to Mexico, where they became known as wedding cookies. Now, they’re a favorite in the U.S., especially during Christmas.

Why are they called Snowball Cookies?

The name “Snowball Cookies” comes from the powdered sugar coating. It looks like snow, making them a classic Christmas treat.

What are some popular nut variations for this recipe?

People often use pecans, walnuts, or almonds. Toasting the nuts can make them taste better. If you don’t like nuts, you can use mini chocolate chips or toffee bits instead.

How should the cookies be stored for optimal freshness?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them without the powdered sugar. Add the sugar coating after they thaw.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cookies up to 4 days before serving. Or, freeze the dough balls and bake them straight from the freezer. This might add 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for this recipe?

To fix texture issues, don’t overmix the dough and chill it before baking if they spread too much. For dry cookies, bake them a bit less. Make sure to measure ingredients correctly, especially flour. If the bottoms get too dark, lower the oven temperature by 25 degrees.