Russian Tea Balls: A Sweet Traditional Treat

by Jessica | November 4, 2023 12:41 pm

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

1. Oven On: Start at gas 3, 170°C, fan 150°C.
2. Creamy Beginnings: Whip butter and vanilla, then add 60g sugar until fluffy.
3. Sift and Stir: Flour with salt, sifted twice, stirred into the mix.
4. Almond Fold: Get those almonds in there for texture.
5. Roll Time: Teaspoon-sized dough balls, spaced out on a tray.
6. Bake to Gold: 20 mins until the edges hint at brown.
7. Sugar Roll: While hot, roll in sugar, then cool on racks.
8. 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.

 

Can I make these cookies in advance?

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.

 

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much during baking?

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

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