1. Cream Butter & Sugar
Beat butter + powdered sugar until light and fluffy (~2 mins).
Mix in vanilla.
2. Add Dry Ingredients
Whisk flour + salt, then gradually mix into the butter.
Fold in chopped nuts until just combined.
3. Shape & Chill
Roll dough into 1-inch balls, place on a baking sheet.
Chill for 30 mins (optional but helps them hold shape).
4. Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Bake for 12-15 mins until just set (they shouldn’t brown!).
5. The Magic Dusting
While still warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar.
Cool completely, then roll again for a snowy finish.
Pro Tips for the Best Tea Balls 🔥
✔ Use room-temperature butter – Ensures a tender crumb.
✔ Chop nuts finely – Too big = crumbly cookies.
✔ Double the batch – They disappear fast!
✔ Storage: Keep in an airtight container for 2 weeks (or freeze unbaked dough).
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
✨ With spiced chai or peppermint tea – Cozy holiday pairing.
✨ Packaged in a festive tin – The perfect edible gift.
✨ Alongside other Christmas classics – Like gingerbread or fudge.
Final Verdict: A Bite of Christmas Magic!
These Russian Tea Balls are more than a cookie—they’re a memory. Every bite takes me back to childhood Christmases, and I hope they’ll do the same for you.
Bake a batch this year and keep the tradition alive! 🎅❤️