Russian Tea Balls: A Sweet Traditional Treat
by Jessica | November 4, 2023 12:41 pm
Step into the world of time-honored Russian Tea Balls, where simplicity meets classic flavor. These delicate almond treats are not only a delightful addition to any gathering but also a testament to the elegance of traditional Russian cuisine.
Author’s Note – A Taste of Tradition: Russian cuisine is known for its rich history and the unique flavors it brings to the table. These Russian Tea Balls capture the essence of that tradition, making them a perfect choice for tea time or special occasions.
Now, let’s get started. Preheat your oven to gas mark 3, 170°C (150°C for fan ovens).
In a mixing bowl, begin by whipping up 225g of salted butter and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until they’re a creamy, dreamy combination. Next, add 60g of icing sugar to the mix and continue whipping until it’s light and fluffy.
In a separate bowl, sift together 225g of plain flour and a pinch of salt. Sift it twice to ensure it’s perfectly fine and airy. Now, fold this sifted flour into the buttery mixture until everything is well combined.
But we’re not done yet. It’s time to introduce a satisfying crunch. Add 150g of finely chopped almonds to the dough and fold them in. The almonds not only provide a wonderful texture but also bring a nutty richness to these delightful tea balls.
With your dough ready, it’s time to shape these treats. Take teaspoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a baking tray, making sure to space them out.
Now, into the preheated oven they go for about 20 minutes, or until the edges hint at a beautiful golden brown. While they’re still warm, roll these tea balls in icing sugar to give them a sweet coat. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool.
But here’s the secret for that extra touch of sweetness—just before serving, roll these delightful treats in icing sugar one more time. It’s like a final dusting of snow on your Russian Tea Balls.
And now, for a flavor tip: The quality of your butter matters. Using high-quality butter will elevate these cookies to a whole new level of deliciousness.
To serve, pair these delicate cookies with a strong black tea. The contrast of the tea’s bold flavor with the sweetness of the tea balls creates a harmonious tea time experience.
Have you ventured into the world of Russian Tea Balls? We’d love to hear your tales and see your culinary creations. Share your experiences in the comments or star-rate this timeless treat, and let’s keep the tradition alive!
- Quick Prep: Only 10 minutes to mix.
- Easy Cook: 20 minutes to golden perfection.
- Low Calorie: Just 84 calories each—indulge without guilt.
- Nutty Goodness: Almonds add a satisfying crunch.
Contents
Russian Tea Balls
For a touch of sweet elegance at your next gathering, these Russian Tea Balls[1] are a perfect choice, combining simplicity with classic flavors.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salted Butter | 225g |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tbsp |
| Icing Sugar (divided) | 180g |
| Plain Flour | 225g |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Finely Chopped Almonds | 150g |
Method
- Oven On: Start at gas 3, 170°C, fan 150°C.
- Creamy Beginnings: Whip butter and vanilla, then add 60g sugar until fluffy.
- Sift and Stir: Flour with salt, sifted twice, stirred into the mix.
- Almond Fold: Get those almonds in there for texture.
- Roll Time: Teaspoon-sized dough balls, spaced out on a tray.
- Bake to Gold: 20 mins until the edges hint at brown.
- Sugar Roll: While hot, roll in sugar, then cool on racks.
- Final Snow: A last sugar roll before serving for a sweet coat.
See more Christmas recipes
Flavor Tip
- Butter Matters: Quality butter equals quality cookies.
Serving Suggestion
Pair these delicate cookies with a strong black tea to balance the sweetness.
Make This Recipe?
Tell us how it went! Comments, ratings, and photos of your tea balls are welcome. Did they become the star of your tea time?
Serving Suggestions:
- These Russian Tea Balls are a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of strong black tea. The slightly sweet and nutty flavor of the cookies pairs wonderfully with the robust taste of tea.
Tips & Variations:
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can toast the finely chopped almonds before adding them to the cookie dough. Simply place the chopped almonds on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn golden and fragrant. Let them cool before incorporating them into the dough.
Common Questions:
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter in this recipe. If you do, consider adding a pinch of salt to the dough to ensure the cookies have the right balance of sweetness and saltiness.
Absolutely! These Russian Tea Balls are great for making ahead of time. You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. They also freeze well if you want to enjoy them at a later date.
What’s the difference between Russian Tea Balls and Mexican Wedding Cookies?
While both cookies share similar characteristics, they are known by different names in various cultures. Russian Tea Balls are also referred to as Snowball Cookies, Butterballs, or Wedding Cookies in some regions. They typically feature a nutty, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different nuts if you like. Pecans or walnuts can be excellent substitutes for almonds, providing their unique flavors to the cookies.
Chilling the cookie dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking can help prevent excessive spreading. This ensures that the cookies maintain their round shape and texture.
Enjoy the simplicity and classic flavors of these Russian Tea Balls. They’re a delightful treat to savor during tea time or any special occasion. Don’t forget to let us know how your baking adventure turns out in the comments or by sharing your photos! Happy baking! Enjoy Your Baking! 🍪🇷🇺 See more Christmas recipes
- Russian Tea Balls: https://ladysuniverse.com/?s=balls
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