Creating Russian Tea Cakes is a simple and enjoyable process. Follow these steps to make your own batch of these delightful cookies:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Shape Cookies: Take small amounts of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
10. Dust with Sugar: While still warm, roll the cookies in additional powdered sugar to coat them generously.

These steps will guide you in making Russian Tea Cakes that are sure to impress everyone who tries them!