🧁 Mini Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes)
If there’s one cookie that instantly whispers holidays, it’s Mini Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes). You know the ones—small, buttery bites rolled in powdered sugar that leave sweet fingerprints everywhere (and honestly, that’s part of the joy).
Hi, I’m Luma from recipeshall.com, and these cookies have been part of my kitchen story for as long as I can remember. They’re the kind of recipe you make while music plays softly, the oven warms the house, and you “accidentally” eat three before they even cool. These mini snowballs are simple, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible.
They’re perfect for busy holiday schedules, cookie swaps, gifting tins, or cozy evenings when you want something sweet without a long ingredient list or complicated steps.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes)
- Only a few pantry ingredients
- No rolling pin, no chilling
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Perfect for make-ahead baking
- Classic holiday flavor everyone loves
If you enjoy easy holiday treats like my No-Bake Christmas Mini Cheesecakes, these cookies will feel right at home on your dessert table.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work best)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
That’s it. No eggs, no leavening, no stress.
👩🍳 How to Make Mini Snowball Cookies
1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key for that tender, crumbly texture.
2. Add Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract. Your kitchen will already start smelling like the holidays.
3. Stir in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing just until combined. Fold in the finely chopped nuts. The dough will be soft but not sticky.
4. Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
5. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, until the bottoms are just lightly golden. The tops should stay pale—don’t wait for browning.
6. Roll in Powdered Sugar
Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Once completely cool, roll them again for that signature snowy finish.
💡 Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
- Use soft butter, not melted – melted butter will make them spread.
- Chop nuts very finely so the cookies hold together.
- Roll twice in powdered sugar for the best look and sweetness.
- Mini size is key – smaller cookies bake evenly and feel extra festive.
And if your powdered sugar ends up everywhere, congratulations—you’re doing it right.
❤️ A Little Kitchen Memory
These cookies became a tradition in my kitchen after I realized how forgiving they are. One December, with kids running around and barely any time, I needed something quick and reliable. These snowballs saved the day. They disappeared faster than anything else on the table and have been a must-bake ever since.
They remind me that holiday baking doesn’t need to be complicated to feel special.
❓ FAQs
Can I make Mini Snowball Cookies ahead of time?
Yes! They store beautifully in an airtight container for up to one week.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze baked (uncoated) cookies for up to 2 months. Roll in powdered sugar after thawing.
Can I skip the nuts?
Yes, though the texture will be slightly different. Add 2 extra tablespoons of flour if skipping nuts.
Why are they crumbly?
That’s exactly how Russian Tea Cakes should be—tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
🎄 Serving & Gifting Ideas
- Add them to holiday cookie tins
- Serve alongside hot cocoa or coffee
- Pair with festive treats like Peppermint Swirl Rolls
- Stack them on a dessert platter for instant holiday charm
These Mini Snowball Cookies (Russian Tea Cakes) are proof that the simplest recipes often become the most loved. They’re cozy, classic, and made for sharing—or not. No judgment here.
From my kitchen to yours, may your holidays be sweet, snowy, and full of good memories.
