Classic Russian Tea Balls rolled twice in powdered sugar for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth holiday cookie.

Russian Tea Balls Recipe (Classic Snowball Cookies)

If you’re looking for a timeless holiday cookie that practically melts in your mouth, these Russian Tea Balls are a must-bake. Also known as Snowball Cookies, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Butterball Cookies, these buttery treats are loaded with finely chopped walnuts, flavored with vanilla, and coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar.

Perfect for Christmas cookie trays, holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee, this classic Russian Tea Balls recipe has been passed down through generations for good reason.

Why You’ll Love These Russian Tea Balls

• Easy, beginner-friendly recipe
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Rich buttery flavor with crunchy walnuts
• Perfect for Christmas cookie platters
• Freezes beautifully
• Great make-ahead holiday cookie

What Are Russian Tea Balls?

Russian Tea Balls are small butter cookies made with flour, sugar, butter, vanilla, and chopped nuts. After baking, they’re rolled in powdered sugar while still warm and then coated a second time once cooled, creating their signature snowy appearance.

Many families know these cookies by different names, including:

• Snowball Cookies
• Mexican Wedding Cookies
• Butterballs
• Pecan Sandies (when made with pecans)
• Holiday Powdered Sugar Cookies

No matter what you call them, they’re a beloved holiday tradition.

Ingredients

• 2 cups butter, softened
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 cups walnuts, finely chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar for rolling

Optional Substitutions

• Replace walnuts with pecans for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Use almond extract for a unique twist.

How to Make Russian Tea Balls

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. This step helps create the tender texture these cookies are known for.

Step 2: Add the Vanilla

Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Add the flour and salt and mix until just combined. The dough may appear crumbly at first, but continue mixing gently until it comes together.

Step 4: Fold in the Walnuts

Stir in the finely chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

For best results, refrigerate the dough for about one hour. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and makes rolling easier.

Step 6: Roll into Balls

Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.

Step 7: Bake

Bake at 350°F for 12–15 minutes.

The bottoms should be lightly golden while the tops remain pale. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft and tender.

Step 8: Roll in Powdered Sugar

Allow the cookies to cool for 2–3 minutes.

While still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar. The warmth helps the sugar adhere to the cookies.

Step 9: Roll Again

Once completely cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time for their classic snowy finish.

Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies

• Use room-temperature butter for the best texture.
• Finely chop the walnuts so the dough rolls easily.
• Don’t overbake—these cookies should stay pale.
• The second coating of powdered sugar creates the iconic look.
• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Russian Tea Balls?

Yes! These cookies freeze exceptionally well. Store them in an airtight container for up to three months. For best results, add a fresh dusting of powdered sugar after thawing.

Can I Use Pecans Instead of Walnuts?

Absolutely. Pecans are a popular substitute and create a slightly sweeter, richer flavor.

Why Are My Russian Tea Balls Falling Apart?

These cookies are naturally delicate because of their high butter content. Be sure to let them cool for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar.

How Long Do Russian Tea Balls Stay Fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, they will stay fresh for up to one week at room temperature.

The Perfect Christmas Cookie

Whether you call them Russian Tea Balls, Snowball Cookies, or Mexican Wedding Cookies, these buttery powdered sugar cookies are a holiday favorite that never goes out of style. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and beautiful snowy appearance make them a staple on Christmas cookie trays year after year.

Bake a batch for your next holiday gathering and watch them disappear!