Old Fashioned Russian Tea Cakes – Buttery, Nutty, and Sweet Little Bites of Heaven!

If you're looking for the perfect delicate cookie that melts in your mouth and is generously coated with powdered sugar, these Old Fashioned Russian Tea Cakes are exactly what you need. Known for their crumbly, buttery texture and the perfect amount of sweetness, these cookies are ideal for any occasion, whether it’s holiday baking, tea time with friends, or a simple snack to enjoy with your morning coffee. They’re easy to make, and with a short list of ingredients, you can whip them up in no time!

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Old Fashioned Russian Tea Cakes

Russian Tea Cakes, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Snowball Cookies, have been around for centuries and are beloved for their simplicity. While the name suggests a Russian origin, variations of this recipe can be found in different cultures, often served during festive occasions. The basic ingredients—flour, butter, sugar, and nuts—create a cookie that is tender and full of flavor, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Russian Tea Cakes

These cookies have a classic taste that is simple yet sophisticated. The rich butter flavor paired with the crunch of finely chopped nuts and the sweetness of powdered sugar is a combination that never disappoints. Plus, they’re versatile! You can switch up the type of nuts or even add some spices to make them your own. The best part? They look just as good as they taste—like little snowballs that are perfect for gift-giving or serving on a holiday dessert tray.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 24 Cookies):

• Calories: 100 kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Sugar: 3g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Old Fashioned Russian Tea Cakes are wonderful on their own but can be served with a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance their sweetness. Pair them with a cappuccino, herbal tea, or a glass of cold milk for a delightful snack. If you’re looking for something more festive, they’re perfect alongside hot cocoa or spiced cider during the winter holidays.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

These cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time. Place them in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the dough balls before baking and then bake them fresh whenever you need a batch. After baking, they freeze well too—just make sure to let them thaw completely before enjoying. Re-roll them in powdered sugar if needed after freezing.

Fun Fact: A Worldwide Favorite with Different Names

Did you know that Russian Tea Cakes are known by many names across the world? In Mexico, they’re called "Polvorones" or "Mexican Wedding Cookies," while in other countries, they’re referred to as Snowball Cookies or Butterballs. Despite the different names, the delicious flavor remains consistent everywhere!

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Cooking Tips

1. Go Nutty: While walnuts are a common choice for Russian Tea Cakes, feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or almonds for a different flavor.
2. Double Rolling: Don’t skip the second roll in powdered sugar! It’s what gives these cookies their signature sweetness and appearance.
3. Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before mixing for the perfect dough consistency.

Optional Variations

• Coconut Lovers: Add a tablespoon of shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for a spiced version of these cookies.
• Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix to make this recipe accessible to everyone.

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Old Fashioned Russian Tea Cakes Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup confectioner's sugar (powdered sugar), sifted, plus more for rolling
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ¾ cup finely chopped nuts, like walnuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper and set aside.
2. Cream the sugar-butter mixture: In a stand mixer (or using a handheld electric mixer), cream the softened unsalted butter, sifted confectioner's sugar, and vanilla extract together until fully combined and light.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt until combined.
4. Make the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed sugar-butter mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. Fold in the finely chopped nuts.
5. Shape the cookies: Roll the dough into 1 ½-inch-sized dough balls and space them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should set but not brown.
7. Roll in powdered sugar: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack and then roll them in powdered sugar again for a beautiful snowy coating.

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Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Russian Tea Cakes are the ultimate holiday treat or anytime snack that everyone loves. With their buttery texture, light crunch from the nuts, and powdered sugar coating, they’re hard to resist. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a party, or simply for yourself, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household!