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Classic Russian Tea Cake Cookies – Easy Homemade Treat

Russian tea cake cookies - featured image

These Classic Russian Tea Cake Cookies are buttery, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. A simple, family-approved recipe with toasted pecans and a snowy double coat of powdered sugar, perfect for holidays or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar (for dough)
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (for rolling)
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (100g) finely chopped pecans, toasted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Cool completely, then finely chop.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar on medium speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
  4. Add vanilla extract and salt; mix on low until combined.
  5. Gradually add flour, mixing on low until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in toasted chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
  7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into 1-inch balls. Place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until bottoms are lightly golden and tops are set but pale.
  9. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm, roll gently in powdered sugar. Place on wire rack to cool completely (about 20 minutes).
  10. Once cool, roll again in powdered sugar. Use a fine-mesh strainer to dust with extra sugar before serving.

Notes

Toast pecans for best flavor. Double coat with powdered sugar for signature snowy look. Cookies taste even better the next day. For gluten-free, use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For nut-free, substitute with toasted sunflower seeds or omit nuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: Russian tea cakes, snowball cookies, pecan cookies, powdered sugar cookies, holiday cookies, easy cookie recipe