Ah, Russian Tea Cakes! Just the name brings back memories of cozy afternoons spent with family and friends. These delightful, buttery cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, making them a sweet treat for any occasion. As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, and this recipe is a quick solution for those days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these melt-in-your-mouth cookies that everyone will adore!
Why You’ll Love This Russian Tea Cakes
These Russian Tea Cakes are not just easy to make; they’re a delightful treat that brings smiles to faces. In just 27 minutes, you can create a batch of cookies that are buttery, nutty, and dusted with sweet powdered sugar. Perfect for busy days, they require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor. Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen!
Ingredients for Russian Tea Cakes
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Russian Tea Cakes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted Butter: The star of the show! Softened butter gives these cookies their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweet ingredient not only sweetens the dough but also coats the cookies for that signature snowy finish.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor, making each bite feel like a warm hug.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cookie, providing structure while keeping them tender.
- Salt: Just a pinch! It balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor.
- Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts!
- Additional Powdered Sugar: For rolling the cookies after baking, ensuring they look as good as they taste.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a bit of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Russian Tea Cakes
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making Russian Tea Cakes. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your cookies might not rise properly, and we want them to be perfectly fluffy!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don’t rush it; take your time to achieve the right consistency!
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Next, add the vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. This little splash of flavor is what makes these cookies truly special. It enhances the sweetness and adds a warm, inviting aroma that will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. We want them to be tender and crumbly, not chewy!
Step 5: Fold in the Nuts
It’s time to fold in the chopped nuts. Whether you choose walnuts or pecans, they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the buttery cookies perfectly. Gently mix them in, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Now comes the fun part! Shape the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie. They’ll spread a little while baking, so give them room to breathe!
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the bottoms to be lightly golden, while the tops should remain pale. This is the perfect time to check for doneness!
Step 8: Roll in Powdered Sugar
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm. This first coating helps the sugar stick. After they cool completely, roll them in powdered sugar again for that beautiful snowy finish!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s key for even baking.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
- Let the cookies cool slightly before rolling in powdered sugar for better adherence.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.
Equipment Needed
- Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet works well, but a silicone mat can prevent sticking.
- Parchment Paper: Great for lining your baking sheet; it makes cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for mixing; a stand mixer can save time.
- Cookie Scoop: Helps shape uniform cookies; a tablespoon works too!
- Cooling Rack: Ideal for cooling cookies evenly; a plate can work in a pinch.
Variations of Russian Tea Cakes
- Chocolate Russian Tea Cakes: Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a rich chocolate twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
- Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Fruit-Infused: Mix in some finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a fruity surprise.
Serving Suggestions for Russian Tea Cakes
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Serve them on a decorative platter dusted with extra powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- For a festive touch, add a few fresh berries or mint leaves as garnish.
- These cookies also make a lovely addition to holiday cookie trays!
FAQs about Russian Tea Cakes
As you embark on your journey to create these delightful Russian Tea Cakes, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, I highly recommend sticking with unsalted butter. It gives the cookies that rich, buttery flavor that makes Russian Tea Cakes so special!
How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Can I freeze Russian Tea Cakes?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer in an airtight container, and they’ll be ready to enjoy whenever you need a sweet treat.
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Walnuts and pecans are traditional choices, but feel free to experiment! Almonds or hazelnuts can add a unique twist to your Russian Tea Cakes.
Are Russian Tea Cakes the same as Mexican Wedding Cookies?
Yes! Russian Tea Cakes are often referred to as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Snowball Cookies. They all share that delightful buttery flavor and powdered sugar coating!
Final Thoughts
Making Russian Tea Cakes is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The joy of rolling those buttery cookies in powdered sugar brings a smile to my face every time. Whether you’re sharing them with family during a cozy gathering or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these cookies have a way of brightening any day. Plus, their simplicity means you can whip them up even on the busiest of days. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and let the delightful aroma fill your home. Happy baking!
Print
Russian Tea Cakes: Discover the Secret to Perfecting Them!
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Russian Tea Cakes are delightful, buttery cookies rolled in powdered sugar, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before rolling in powdered sugar.
- Allow to cool completely and roll in powdered sugar again before serving.
Notes
- For a variation, try adding cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- These cookies are also known as snowball cookies or Mexican wedding cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Russian