Russian Tea Cakes Recipe
Introduction
Russian Tea Cakes, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Snowball Cookies, are a delightful treat that have been enjoyed for generations. These buttery, crumbly cookies are rolled in powdered sugar, giving them a beautiful snowy appearance that is perfect for any festive occasion. Whether you are hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this Russian Tea Cakes recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for rolling
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Steps
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the butter and sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or do it by hand with a wooden spoon.
Step 3: Add the vanilla extract
Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Step 4: Add the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 5: Incorporate the nuts
Gently fold in the finely chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The nuts add a lovely crunch and flavor to the cookies.
Step 6: Shape the dough
Take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Step 7: Bake the cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops of the cookies should remain pale in color.
Step 8: Roll in powdered sugar
Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. While they are still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar until fully coated. Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
While the classic Russian Tea Cakes are delicious on their own, you can also experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create variations of this beloved recipe. Here are a few ideas:
Chocolate Russian Tea Cakes:
Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate twist. You can also mix in some mini chocolate chips for extra richness.
Lemon Russian Tea Cakes:
Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor. You can also drizzle the cooled cookies with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Almond Russian Tea Cakes:
Replace the chopped nuts with finely chopped almonds for an almond-infused version of these cookies. You can also add a drop of almond extract to enhance the flavor.
Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Russian Tea Cakes turn out perfect every time:
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Softened butter will cream more easily with the sugar and result in a better texture.
- Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor. Pure vanilla extract is preferred over imitation vanilla.
- Finely chop the nuts to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough and provide the perfect amount of crunch.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar. This will help the sugar adhere to the cookies without melting.
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be enjoyed for up to a week.
Conclusion
Russian Tea Cakes are a classic cookie that never goes out of style. With their delicate texture and irresistible buttery flavor, they are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them during the holiday season or year-round, this Russian Tea Cakes recipe is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in these melt-in-your-mouth delights!
FAQs
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: While you can use margarine as a substitute for butter, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the cookies may be slightly different. Butter adds a rich taste and a tender crumb to the cookies, so using it is recommended for the best results.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dough for later use. Simply shape the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the balls until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, let the dough balls thaw slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar and baking as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of nut?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for walnuts or pecans, you can use any type of nut you prefer or have on hand. Almonds, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts can be a delicious alternative.
