Russian Tea Cake Cookies {Pecan Snowballs}
Ingredients
- 16 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups flour
- 3/4 cup pecans toasted and finely chopped
- 1 cup confectioners sugar
Russian tea cakes, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or snowball cookies, are a classic and beloved holiday treat. These bite-sized cookies are packed with the rich and nutty flavor of pecans, making them a perfect addition to any holiday dessert spread. The recipe for these delectable treats is simple yet yields impressive results, making it a must-try for any baking enthusiast. So let's dive into the world of Russian tea cakes and learn how to make them with pecans.
Jump to RecipeRussian tea cakes, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or snowball cookies, are a classic and beloved holiday treat. These bite-sized cookies are packed with the rich and nutty flavor of pecans, making them a perfect addition to any holiday dessert spread. The recipe for these delectable treats is simple yet yields impressive results, making it a must-try for any baking enthusiast. So let's dive into the world of Russian tea cakes and learn how to make them with pecans.
Russian tea cakes are traditionally made with ground nuts, and pecans are the perfect choice for these delicate cookies. Pecans are a type of tree nut that are native to North America and are known for their rich and buttery flavor. They are a staple in Southern cuisine and are often used in desserts due to their high fat content, which adds moisture and a creamy texture to baked goods.
When it comes to Russian tea cakes, pecans play a crucial role in both flavor and texture. The finely ground pecans give these cookies a nutty and buttery taste that pairs perfectly with the sweet powdered sugar coating. They also add a slight crunch, making each bite a delightful experience.
Apart from being delicious, pecans also offer numerous health benefits. They are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. Pecans are also packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, zinc, and magnesium, which can improve heart health and boost immunity.
Now that we know the importance of pecans in Russian tea cakes, let's learn how to incorporate them into the recipe. To start, you will need to finely chop or grind the pecans until they are a coarse meal-like texture. This can be done in a food processor or with a rolling pin and a plastic bag.
Once the pecans are prepared, they are mixed with butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to create a crumbly dough. The dough is then rolled into small balls and baked until lightly golden. After the cookies have cooled, they are rolled in powdered sugar, giving them their signature snowball appearance.
Ingredients