Russian Tea Cakes Or Mexican Wedding Balls
Delicate Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Balls are buttery, nutty cookies coated in powdered sugar, perfect for holidays and special occasions, appealing to those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar thoroughly.
- Sift together flour and salt.
- Add the sifted flour mixture to the creamed mixture and blend well.
- Stir in chopped nuts.
- Chill the dough until firm enough to handle.
- Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on an ungreased baking sheet (cookies do not spread).
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until set but not browned.
- While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
- Allow the cookies to cool.
- Roll the cookies in powdered sugar again before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the chopped nuts with rolled oats or additional flour. Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. If you prefer a different flavor, try adding almond extract instead of vanilla. Chilling the dough is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat with afternoon tea. Serve them alongside a cup of hot chocolate or coffee for a delightful pairing. For a unique twist, try them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special dessert. They also make a charming addition to gift boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy them later, thaw at room temperature; there's no need to reheat as they’re delicious at any temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Russian Tea Cakes Or Mexican Wedding Balls contains roughly 90 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 4g 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?
While margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, it may alter the texture and flavor of the cookies. For the best results, stick with unsalted butter to achieve the desired richness in these Russian Tea Cakes.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help bind the ingredients together, preserving the cookie's texture.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
Pecans and walnuts are traditional choices for Russian Tea Cakes, offering a rich flavor. However, you can use any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to customize the taste to your liking.
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).