There’s a special kind of magic in cookies that melt the moment they touch your tongue—cookies so buttery, tender, and delicately sweet that they remind you of winter holidays, afternoon tea, and cherished family gatherings. Russian Tea Balls are exactly that kind of treat. These petite, powdered-sugar–coated cookies have traveled through generations and across cultures, becoming beloved in kitchens around the world.
Despite their elegant appearance, Russian Tea Balls are wonderfully simple to make. With their crumbly, nutty interior and snowy white exterior, they offer a flavor that feels both nostalgic and timeless. They’re the kind of cookie that shows up on Christmas platters, bridal shower tables, and cozy weekend baking lists—but truly, they deserve a place on every cookie tray year-round.
Let’s explore what makes these cookies so irresistible and how you can make a perfect batch at home.
The Allure of Russian Tea Balls
These cookies are loved for good reason:
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Melt-in-your-mouth texture from butter, powdered sugar, and finely chopped nuts
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A snowy finish that makes them look festive and elegant
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A simple ingredient list that delivers an impressive result
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The perfect tea or coffee companion
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Long-lasting—they store beautifully for days
Russian Tea Balls have a tender shortbread-like crumb, lightly sweet with a gentle crunch from pecans or walnuts. Rolled twice in powdered sugar, they offer just the right amount of sweetness in each bite.
Ingredients for Russian Tea Balls
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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½ cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¾ cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
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Additional powdered sugar for rolling
How to Make Russian Tea Balls
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