Russian Tea Cakes
Russian Tea Cakes
Introduction
Russian Tea Cakes are delightful little cookies that melt in your mouth. They have a rich, buttery flavor, and their nutty taste from finely chopped walnuts makes them irresistible. These cookies are often dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a snowy appearance, perfect for festive occasions or cozy get-togethers.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Russian Tea Cakes is a rewarding experience. They are easy to prepare and require simple ingredients that you may already have at home. Whether you want a sweet treat for yourself, a special dessert for friends, or something to bring to a holiday gathering, these cookies are the perfect choice. Their rich flavor and delicate texture will make everyone smile.
How to Make Russian Tea Cakes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 6 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar (or more as needed)
Directions:
- Gather all ingredients.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Cream the butter and vanilla together in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and 6 tablespoons of powdered sugar.
- Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and stir until just blended.
- Add the chopped walnuts and mix until incorporated; the dough may be crumbly.
- Take small scoops of dough and roll them between your hands into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the edges are just turning golden, about 12 minutes.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool for 15 minutes.
- Place the remaining 1/3 cup powdered sugar in a small bowl. Roll the cooled cookies in the powdered sugar once or twice to cover. Enjoy!
How to Serve Russian Tea Cakes
Serve Russian Tea Cakes as a sweet treat with tea or coffee. They are also perfect for dessert at family gatherings or holiday celebrations. To make them even more special, arrange them on a beautiful platter and sprinkle additional powdered sugar on top before serving.
How to Store Russian Tea Cakes
Store Russian Tea Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week, but they are best enjoyed fresh. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Tips to Make Russian Tea Cakes
- Make sure your butter is softened to ensure a smooth cream when mixing.
- Don’t overmix the dough; it should be crumbly but still hold together when rolled into balls.
- Use finely chopped walnuts for the best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for different flavor profiles.
Variation
For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or cherries to the dough. This can give the cookies an extra burst of flavor!
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the overall taste slightly. If you do, you might want to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe if any.
2. What can I use instead of walnuts?
You can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even omit nuts entirely if nut-free cookies are preferred. Just adjust the texture and flavor according to your choice.
3. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as they can brown quickly! They will also set more as they cool.
Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful Russian Tea Cakes!
