20 Russian Tea Cakes Recipe Epicurious Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
Russian tea cakes, also known as snowball cookies, are a classic dessert that originated in Russia and have become a beloved treat all over the world. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are typically served during the holiday season but are perfect for any occasion. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this recipe for Russian tea cakes from Epicurious is easy to follow and will result in delicious, delicate cookies that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Russian tea cakes, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or snowball cookies, are a delicious and popular holiday treat. These bite-sized cookies are made with a simple combination of flour, butter, and ground nuts, resulting in a soft and crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. While the origin of this cookie is still debated, there's no denying its widespread popularity across different cultures and countries. Here are eight variations of this classic recipe that you must try.
2of 8
Russian Tea Cakes Cookie
Main Ingredients: Butter, Vanilla Extract, Flour, Confectioners Sugar
If you're a fan of the original Russian tea cakes, then this recipe is for you. It stays true to the classic recipe, using walnuts as the ground nuts and powdered sugar for that signature snowy look. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon snack. The best part? They only require a few ingredients and can be made in under 30 minutes. Who said delicious treats have to be complicated?
3of 8
Russian Tea Cakes I
Main Ingredients: Butter, Vanilla Extract, Confectioners Sugar, All
This variation of the Russian tea cakes adds a touch of sweetness and crunch with the addition of chopped pecans. The vanilla extract also gives these cookies a warm and comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. While the traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, this version calls for whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. Don't worry, the taste and texture are still just as amazing.
4of 8
Green Tea Almond Russian Tea Cakes
Main Ingredients: Butter, Vanilla Extract, Confectioners Sugar, All
Looking for a unique and flavorful twist on the classic Russian tea cakes? Look no further than this recipe that incorporates green tea powder and almond extract into the cookie dough. The result is a delicate and fragrant cookie that is sure to impress. Serve these at your next tea party or holiday gathering for a tasty and unexpected treat.
5of 8
Christmas Russian Tea Cakes
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Powdered Sugar, Sea Salt, Vanilla
Christmas just wouldn't be the same without a batch of Russian tea cakes. This festive version of the cookie uses cranberries and orange zest to add a pop of color and flavor. The orange juice in the cookie dough also helps to keep the cookies moist and adds a subtle citrus taste. These cookies are perfect for gift-giving and are sure to be a hit at any holiday celebration.
Just because you follow a vegan lifestyle, doesn't mean you have to miss out on the deliciousness of Russian tea cakes. This recipe uses coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk instead of regular milk, making it completely vegan-friendly. The result is a cookie that is just as buttery and crumbly as the traditional version, but with a subtle coconut flavor. These cookies are perfect for sharing with all your friends and family, regardless of their dietary restrictions.
7of 8
Easy Russian Tea Cakes
Main Ingredients: Sugar Cookie Mix, Gold Medal All Purpose Flour, Butter
If you're short on time but still want to indulge in some delicious Russian tea cakes, this recipe is for you. With only four ingredients – butter, flour, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla extract – these cookies couldn't be simpler. They can be made in under 20 minutes, making them the perfect last-minute option for a holiday treat. Despite their simplicity, they still have that classic Russian tea cake taste that we all know and love.
8of 8
Snowballs (Russian Tea Cakes)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Vanilla, Confectioners Sugar, All Purpose
If you're looking for a more festive name for your Russian tea cakes, try calling them snowballs. After all, they do look like little balls of snow with their powdered sugar coating. This recipe stays true to the classic ingredients, but adds a twist with the use of ground almonds instead of walnuts. The result is a slightly nuttier and more delicate cookie that is perfect for any winter occasion.
The Perfect Combination of Ingredients
When it comes to making the perfect Russian tea cakes, the key is using the right combination of ingredients. This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, chopped walnuts, salt, and vanilla extract, giving these cookies their signature flavor and texture. The use of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps to create a soft, crumbly texture that is essential to these cookies.
The Importance of Proper Technique
In addition to using the right ingredients, it's important to follow the proper technique when making Russian tea cakes. One key step in this recipe is chilling the dough before shaping it into balls and baking. This allows the butter in the dough to solidify, resulting in a more uniform and delicate texture.
Another important technique in making these cookies is dusting them with powdered sugar while they are still warm. This not only adds a beautiful snowy appearance but also enhances the sweetness and flavor of the cookies.
Make it Your Own
While this recipe is a classic and delicious version of Russian tea cakes, feel free to get creative and add your own twist. Some variations include using different types of nuts, such as pecans or almonds, or adding a touch of cinnamon or cardamom for a unique flavor. You can also experiment with different types of extracts, such as almond or lemon, to give these cookies a personal touch.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a simple and delicious dessert to impress your friends and family, look no further than this recipe for Russian tea cakes from Epicurious. With the right ingredients and techniques, you'll be able to create a batch of these delectable cookies that will have everyone asking for the recipe. So go ahead and give it a try, and see for yourself why these cookies are a timeless favorite.