Buttery Russian Tea Balls – Classic Holiday Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and salt, and continue to mix until fully incorporated.

Add the Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts.

Shape the Cookies:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the cookie balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are just beginning to turn golden around the edges. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to be soft.

Coat in Powdered Sugar:
Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a plate. While they are still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat them completely. Repeat this step with additional powdered sugar once the cookies have cooled completely.

Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cookies have cooled and are fully coated, they are ready to enjoy. These buttery treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea.

Serving and Storage Tips