Snowballs (Russian Tea Cakes)

Name: Snowballs (Russian Tea Cakes)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 dozen
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 c butter (at room temperature); 1 1/2 tsp vanilla; 1/2 c confectioners' sugar (sifted, plus extra); 2 c flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 c pecans (finely chopped)

By Sea Sun
@Seasun

My grandmother used to make these every Christmas and since then, I have made them every holiday season.

They used to be my very favorite Christmas cookie when I was a child which is saying a lot, since she used to make dozens of different types. I like to think I am passing along the tradition.

I have made one change from her original recipe, although I am sure she would be just as pleased with my version!

These are a definite hit and we usually go through them before Christmas arrives and consequently, I end up making another double batch!

Enjoy!

Rating:

★★★★★ 8 votes5

Comments:

34 Comments

Serves:

4 dozen

Prep:

20 Min

Cook:

20 Min

Method:

Bake

Ingredients

1 c

butter (at room temperature)
1 1/2 tsp

vanilla
1/2 c

confectioners' sugar (sifted, plus extra)
2 c

flour
1/4 tsp

salt
1 c

pecans (finely chopped)
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How to Make Snowballs (Russian Tea Cakes)

Step-by-Step

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Cream butter in a large mixing bowl. Add the vanilla then gradually add 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
Sift the flour, measure, then sift again with the salt. Add gradually to the butter mixture. Add the pecans and mix well.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 20 minutes, or until edges are very lightly browned.
Remove the cookies from the baking sheets. After 5 minutes, roll in powdered sugar while still hot. Cool completely and roll again in powdered sugar before serving.
Store in covered container.