Russian Balls
Russian Balls are sweet, nutty treats with a delicate vanilla flavor, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or sharing during festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar together.
- Gradually add in flour to the creamed mixture.
- Add chopped walnuts and vanilla extract.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Bake at 325°F for 20 minutes.
- Do not brown the cookies.
- Roll the cookies in confectioner's sugar, let cool, then roll in sugar again.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Ensure that your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. To save time, you can use pre-chopped walnuts. For a festive twist, try adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Russian Balls make an excellent dessert on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a lovely presentation, dust them with additional confectioner's sugar before serving. They can be served alongside other treats, such as Dipped Chocolates(No-Cook Fondant), for a delightful dessert platter during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Russian Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them where they can last for up to two weeks. When ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Russian Balls contains roughly 5 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly. For the best results, choose a high-quality margarine that contains at least 80% fat.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be firm to the touch and slightly set when they are done. Since you do not want them to brown, check them around the 20-minute mark to ensure they maintain their light color.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough or the baked cookies. To freeze the dough, shape it into balls and place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).