Tea Cakes

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream butter and sugar
   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and beat until incorporated.
3. Add dry ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts with a spatula until evenly distributed.
4. Shape the cookies
   Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place the balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
5. Bake the cookies
   Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned and the cookies are set but not dark. They should not spread much during baking.
6. First sugar coating
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Second sugar coating
   Once the cookies have cooled completely, roll them in powdered sugar a second time to create that distinctive snowy appearance. This second coating ensures the cookies are fully covered with a beautiful white exterior.