There’s something enchantingly nostalgic about snowy afternoons when the world outside turns quiet and white. As a child, those winter days meant warmth emanating from the kitchen, where a plate of freshly baked Snowball Cookies waited to cool. The scent of toasted nuts and butter filled the air—an unmistakable sign that Classic Russian Tea Cakes were ready.
Each holiday season, our family kitchen transformed into a haven of comfort. My grandmother would hum softly as she rolled the dough into perfect bite-sized rounds, dusted them in powdered sugar, and arranged them neatly on a tray. For her, these cookies weren’t just treats—they were a part of our tradition. The recipe had been passed down for generations, a cherished Russian Tea Cake Recipe that symbolized togetherness.
As snowflakes danced outside, we’d gather around the table, sipping tea and watching sugar drift off each cookie like fresh snowfall. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth delights captured the essence of home and warmth. They perfectly complemented our favorite Winter Tea Ideas—spiced chai, blackcurrant tea, or simply hot cocoa with a dash of cinnamon. For us, these Russian Cookies Christmas delicacies represented more than a dessert—they were the sweet punctuation to heartfelt family moments.
Print
Snowball Cookies: Classic Russian Tea Cakes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies 1x
Description
These melt-in-your-mouth snowball cookies, also known as classic Russian tea cakes, combine buttery dough and finely chopped nuts for a delicate, crumbly treat dusted in powdered sugar. They are perfect for cozy winter gatherings and holiday cookie exchanges.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Beat butter and powdered sugar until creamy and light, then mix in vanilla extract.
2. Sift in flour and salt and stir on low speed until a soft dough forms.
3. Fold in chopped nuts gently without overmixing.
4. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll chilled dough into 1 tablespoon balls and place them 1 inch apart on the prepared sheet.
7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden and the tops remain pale.
8. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while warm.
9. Allow cookies to cool completely, then roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: russian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 30
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 25
Keywords: snowball cookies, classic russian tea cakes, russian tea cake recipe, christmas cookies, winter tea ideas, holiday cookies
The magic of Snowball Cookies lies in their simplicity: a few wholesome ingredients that, when combined, create an old-world comfort you can taste. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared as part of a festive cookie platter, their delicate flavor and snowy coating bring joy to every winter celebration.
Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Cozy Winter Gatherings
There’s a reason Classic Russian Tea Cakes have endured as a beloved winter favorite. Their buttery richness and nutty aroma make them the perfect companion for hot drinks on frosty evenings. Imagine curling up under a blanket, a steaming mug of tea in hand, with a plate of Snowball Cookies at your side—the pairing is pure winter bliss.
Their signature powdered sugar coating does more than please the sweet tooth—it embodies winter’s charm. Each cookie looks like a miniature snowball, softly dusted and glistening, mirroring the world outside your window. On festive dessert tables, these cookies add a touch of nostalgia and beauty, standing out among other treats with their classic, snow-covered appearance.
In many homes, they’re a staple of Russian Cookies Christmas feasts, shared alongside other cherished confections. Their mild sweetness and crumbly texture pair wonderfully with spiced teas, coffee, or mulled wine—making them an essential addition to any Winter Tea Ideas spread.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing sweet gifts, or simply craving a taste of comfort, these Classic Russian Tea Cakes offer everything you need to capture the spirit of winter: warmth, sweetness, and timeless tradition.
Baking the Perfect Classic Russian Tea Cakes
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Snowball Cookies
If you want your Snowball Cookies to have that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture, start with pure, high-quality ingredients. Traditional Classic Russian Tea Cakes rely on just a handful of pantry staples—but each one plays a crucial role in creating their buttery richness and delicate crumb.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes / Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1 cup (226 g) | Use high-quality European-style butter for a richer flavor. |
| Powdered sugar | ½ cup (60 g) | Sifted for smooth texture in the dough. You’ll need extra for coating. |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances the buttery aroma and sweetness. |
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¼ cups (280 g) | For gluten-free, substitute with a 1:1 GF blend. |
| Finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) | ¾ cup (90 g) | Toast lightly before mixing for deeper flavor. |
| Pinch of salt | ¼ tsp | Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. |
Ingredient Selection Tips:
- Butter: Choose European-style butter with higher fat content for tenderness.
- Nuts: Walnuts and pecans give a warm depth while almonds add mild sweetness.
- Sugar: Powdered sugar ensures a smooth crumb and snowy coating.
- Vegan or Gluten-Free: Use plant-based butter and a quality GF blend with xanthan gum.
The beauty of Russian Cookies Christmas recipes lies in their forgiving simplicity. Even with substitutions, the cookies retain the same cozy aroma and delightful appearance that make them a winter favorite.
How to Make Snowball Cookies Step-by-Step
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy and light, then add vanilla.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Mix in flour and salt gradually, fold in nuts, and form a soft dough.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to firm up the texture.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll one tablespoon of dough into smooth balls and place on parchment-lined sheets.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden on the bottom and pale on top.
- First Snowfall: Roll warm cookies in powdered sugar once they’ve rested five minutes.
- Second Snowfall: When cool, roll again for a perfect snowy finish.
Pro Tips: Avoid overbaking, chill dough for shape, and use almond extract for a unique twist. You’ll create tender Snowball Cookies that pair perfectly with any Winter Tea Ideas.
Mastering the Art of Presentation and Serving
Serving Classic Russian Tea Cakes at Christmas Gatherings
The beauty of Snowball Cookies lies not only in their taste but in their snowy, elegant appeal. Display them on a tiered stand or tray accented with cranberries, pine, or silver ornaments for a festive, wintry look that enriches any celebration of Russian Cookies Christmas.
These cookies pair wonderfully with fragrant teas like Earl Grey or jasmine and also with cozy spiced blends such as cinnamon chai or cardamom tea. For a sweeter indulgence, serve them beside a mug of cocoa or cappuccino—perfect comfort for long winter evenings.
They make thoughtful homemade gifts, too. Fill tins or jars with your Classic Russian Tea Cakes, tie with ribbon, and share sweet cheer. Nothing feels more heartfelt than gifting a piece of nostalgic warmth during the season.
Storage Tips and Variations for Every Season
To preserve that buttery texture, store cooled cookies in airtight containers for a week, refrigerate up to two weeks, or freeze for three months. When serving, bring them to room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar.
- Almond Snowballs: Sub almonds for refined sweetness.
- Walnut or Pecan: Classic nutty richness for holiday trays.
- Cocoa-Infused: Two tablespoons of cocoa powder for chocolatey appeal.
- Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest for a bright twist.
Each variation keeps the soft crumble and charm of Classic Russian Tea Cakes, transforming gracefully through every season.
FAQs and Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions About Russian Tea Cakes
- Can I make Snowball Cookies ahead of time? Yes, store at room temperature up to a week or freeze for months. Re-roll in sugar before serving.
- Why did my cookies flatten or crumble? Use chilled dough and avoid too-soft butter. Measure flour precisely.
- How to make them nut-free? Replace nuts with shredded coconut or toasted oats for a similar bite.
- Best way to dust with powdered sugar? Roll once warm and again after fully cooled for a thick, snow-white coating.
- How long do they stay fresh? About a week at room temp or longer if refrigerated or frozen. Refresh with powdered sugar before serving.
Bringing Comfort and Tradition to Your Winter Table
Few treats capture the winter spirit like Classic Russian Tea Cakes. Their buttery richness and snow-dusted sweetness inspire warmth and togetherness during every Russian Cookies Christmas celebration.
Each bite tells a story of laughter and tradition passed through generations—a reminder that the simplest ingredients often make the most lasting memories. Whether served with tea, coffee, or cocoa, they invite moments of comfort in every season.
So as you prepare for your own cozy winter gathering, try this Russian Tea Cake Recipe, pair it with your favorite Winter Tea Ideas, and share generously with family and friends. Let each delicate cookie embody the joy of home, tradition, and the irresistible sweetness of the season.
