Russian tea cakes, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or snowball cookies, are a classic treat loved by many. These delicate, buttery cookies are traditionally made with ground nuts, flour, and powdered sugar, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is simply irresistible. While there are many variations of this beloved dessert, celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse has perfected the recipe for Russian tea cakes, ensuring that each bite is filled with rich and nutty flavors.
Main Ingredients: Cherrystone Clams, Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Sliced
If you're a fan of seafood and hearty soups, then you have to try Emeril Lagasse's famous clam chowder recipe. This New England-style soup is loaded with tender clams, potatoes, and bacon for a perfect balance of flavors. The secret ingredient? A touch of Emeril's signature seasoning blend, Bam! This chowder is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or anytime you're craving a bowl of deliciousness.
Tea cakes are a classic Southern treat, and this recipe is as old-fashioned as it gets. These soft, buttery cookies are simple yet oh-so-satisfying. Made with just a handful of ingredients and a hint of vanilla, they're perfect for dunking in a cup of tea or enjoying on their own. Pro tip: Make a double batch because they tend to disappear quickly!
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Old Fashioned Tea Cakes
Main Ingredients: Self Rising Flour, Sugar, Salt, Eggs, Oil, Milk
If you're looking for a recipe that will transport you back in time, these old-fashioned tea cakes are just the ticket. This version is slightly different from the Southern tea cakes mentioned above, but equally delicious. These cookies are soft, crumbly, and perfect for an afternoon snack or a sweet treat after dinner.
These tea cakes are the epitome of Southern charm and hospitality. They're made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, and they come together in no time. These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family, and they make a great addition to any dessert spread.
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Deep South Old Fashioned Tea Cakes
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Butter Flavored Shortening, Granulated
Take your tea cakes to the next level with this Deep South recipe. These cookies are slightly crisp on the outside, but soft and tender on the inside. They're perfect for dipping in tea or coffee, or even enjoyed on their own. Plus, the hint of lemon zest adds a refreshing twist to this traditional recipe.
Also known as snowball cookies, these Russian tea cakes are a holiday favorite. Made with ground pecans and rolled in powdered sugar, these cookies melt in your mouth and are a perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of tea or coffee. They're also a great addition to any holiday cookie tray.
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Perfect Crab Cakes
Main Ingredients: Lump Crab Meat, Saltine Crackers, Eggs, Onion
Crab cakes are a staple in many coastal regions, and this recipe is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is to use fresh, high-quality crab meat and not to overpower it with too many fillers. Serve these juicy and flavorful crab cakes as an appetizer or main dish, and watch them disappear in no time.
If you're a true tea cake lover, then you have to try this recipe. These cookies are a southern grandmother's specialty, passed down from generation to generation. They're slightly different from other tea cake recipes, but equally delicious. The secret? A touch of orange zest for a hint of citrusy goodness.
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Salmon Cakes
Main Ingredients: Canned Salmon, Egg Yolk, Sea Salt, Black Pepper
If you're looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional crab cakes, try these salmon cakes. They're made with fresh salmon, seasoned with dill and lemon, and served with a zesty yogurt sauce. These cakes are perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and they're a great way to incorporate more seafood into your diet.
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Baltimore Crab Cakes
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Large Egg, Dijon Mustard, Fresh Lemon
Baltimore is known for its delicious seafood, and these crab cakes are no exception. This recipe uses Old Bay seasoning, a staple in Maryland cooking, to give the crab cakes a spicy kick. Served with a side of tartar sauce, these crab cakes are perfect for a summer cookout or any seafood lover.
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Apple Coffee Cake adapted from Emeril Lagasse
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Light Brown Sugar, Large Eggs, All
Who says tea cakes have to be plain and boring? This apple coffee cake recipe, adapted from Emeril Lagasse, is a game-changer. The cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and flavor to the cake, while the diced apples add a touch of sweetness. Serve this for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Easy Tuna Cakes
Main Ingredients: Tuna, Fresh Parsley, Panko Breadcrumbs, Egg, Garlic
These tuna cakes are a quick and easy meal for busy weeknights. Made with canned tuna, breadcrumbs, and a handful of other ingredients, they come together in less than 30 minutes. Serve them as a sandwich, on top of a salad, or even as a standalone dish. Tip: Add a dollop of spicy mayo for an extra kick.
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Nutella Sea Salt Molten Cakes
Main Ingredients: Butter, Bittersweet Chocolate, Nutella, Eggs
If you have a sweet tooth, you have to try these Nutella sea salt molten cakes. These individual-sized cakes are rich, decadent, and perfect for sharing. The hint of sea salt adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the Nutella, making these cakes irresistible.
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Homemade Maryland Crab Cakes
Main Ingredients: Crab, Large Egg, Old Bay Seasoning, Worcestershire
If you're a fan of Maryland-style crab cakes, then you have to try this recipe. These jumbo lump crab cakes are loaded with fresh crab meat and just the right amount of seasoning. Serve them with a side of coleslaw and a squeeze of lemon for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Old-Fashioned Tea Cakes
Main Ingredients: Flour, Unsalted Butter, Lard, Granulated Sugar, Eggs
These old-fashioned tea cakes are a family favorite for a reason. They're made with buttermilk and lemon zest, giving them a tender and tangy flavor. They're perfect for an afternoon snack or a sweet treat after dinner. Tip: Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before baking for an extra touch of warmth.
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Emeril Lagasse’s Cajun Bloody Mary
Main Ingredients: Tomato Juice, Vodka, Fresh Lemon Juice, Fresh Lime
This Cajun Bloody Mary recipe from Emeril Lagasse is perfect for brunch or any time you're in need of a little hair of the dog. The secret? A touch of Emeril's signature spice blend, Bam! This cocktail is sure to wake up your taste buds and get your day off to a delicious start.
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Emeril Lagasse's Baby Bam Spice Seasoning Mix
Main Ingredients: Paprika, Salt, Dried Parsley, Onion Powder, Garlic
This homemade spice mix is a staple in Emeril Lagasse's kitchen, and for a good reason. It's a versatile blend of herbs and spices that can be used in a variety of dishes, from meats and seafood to soups and stews. Pro tip: Make a big batch and keep it on hand for quick and easy seasoning.
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Emeril LaGasse’s New Orleans-Style Barbecued Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Jumbo Shrimp, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cajun Seasoning
This New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp recipe is a favorite of Emeril Lagasse's. The shrimp are cooked in a delicious and spicy butter sauce that is perfect for dipping crusty bread into. This dish is perfect for a summer cookout or anytime you're craving some Cajun flavors.
Main Ingredients: Paprika, Salt, Dried Parsley, Onion Powder, Garlic
If you love Emeril's Baby Bam spice mix but can't find it in stores, try making your own at home with this copycat recipe. It's a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other herbs and spices that will add a punch of flavor to any dish. Use it as a rub for meats, sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, or add it to soups and stews.
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Foolproof Muffin Tin Molten Lava Cakes
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Semisweet Chocolate Chips
Impress your guests with these adorable and delicious molten lava cakes. Made in a muffin tin, these mini cakes are filled with a gooey chocolate center that oozes out when you cut into them. They're the perfect dessert for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
The Secret to Perfect Russian Tea Cakes
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
When it comes to making Russian tea cakes, the quality of ingredients is crucial. Butter, flour, and powdered sugar are the main components of this recipe, so it's important to use high-quality versions of these ingredients for the best results. Emeril Lagasse recommends using unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the cookies. Additionally, using all-purpose flour will give the cookies a tender texture, while powdered sugar ensures a light and delicate sweetness.
Adding a Touch of Nutty Flavor
The key to giving Russian tea cakes their signature nutty flavor is by using finely ground nuts. Traditional recipes call for walnuts, but you can use any type of nuts you prefer, such as almonds or pecans. Toasted nuts will add an extra depth of flavor to the cookies, so make sure to toast them beforehand. For those with allergies, you can also use ground oats as a substitute for the nuts.
Mastering the Technique
One of the most important aspects of making Russian tea cakes is the technique. Emeril Lagasse suggests sifting the flour and powdered sugar to ensure a smooth and even texture. When mixing the ingredients, make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This will create a light and airy cookie. Lastly, chilling the dough before rolling them into balls will help the cookies hold their shape and prevent them from spreading too much while baking.
Dusting with Powdered Sugar
The final touch to these delectable cookies is dusting them with powdered sugar. This not only adds a beautiful snowy appearance but also adds an extra layer of sweetness. Make sure to dust the cookies while they are still warm so that the sugar sticks to the surface, creating a deliciously sweet crust.
In conclusion, Emeril Lagasse's recipe for Russian tea cakes is the epitome of perfection. With the right ingredients, technique, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, you can create a batch of these delightful treats that will have everyone coming back for more. So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself why these cookies are a beloved classic.
