It’s that magical time of year when the air turns crisp, the leaves do their best impression of confetti, and your grandma’s kitchen transforms into a holiday wonderland. And what better way to celebrate than with a batch of Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies? These delightful little treats are so buttery, they practically melt in your mouth like the first snowfall of winter. Just picture yourself sipping tea while nibbling on these delicate cookies, all while wearing your coziest sweater—pure bliss!
Now, let’s be honest: every family has that one recipe that evokes warm memories and makes you feel all mushy inside. For me, it’s Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies. I can still remember standing on tiptoes in the kitchen, eagerly waiting to sneak a taste as she rolled them in powdered sugar. hearty breakfast options These cookies have seen countless holiday gatherings, cozy afternoons with friends, and even those “I-need-a-cookie-right-now” moments. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they hold such a special place in my heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cookies require minimal ingredients and are incredibly easy to make, even for beginners.
- They boast a rich flavor profile with hints of vanilla and nuts that will leave you craving more.
- Their snowy white appearance makes them visually stunning for any gathering or festive occasion.
- Perfect for enjoying with tea or coffee but versatile enough to serve as dessert at any meal!
Ingredients for Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for easy mixing; it gives the cookies their rich flavor. For more inspiration, check out this easy air fryer cookies recipe.
- Powdered Sugar: This is key for that melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweetness without being too overpowering.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla elevates the flavors and adds warmth to the cookies.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works best for achieving the right texture; no fancy flours needed here!
- Chopped Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts): These add crunch and depth. Choose your favorite or skip them if you’re nut-free.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances out the sweetness perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper because nobody wants a sticky mess!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial; it’s where all the magic begins.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Mix
Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly incorporated. Your kitchen should start smelling like sweet dreams at this point—if not, turn up the charm!
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in all-purpose flour, salt, and chopped nuts until just combined. You want everything to blend well without over-mixing—it’s like a dance party where everyone knows their moves!
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Using your hands (or two spoons if you’re feeling fancy), shape small balls of dough about an inch wide and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake for about 12–15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before rolling in powdered sugar—this is where they get their famous snowy look!
Transfer to plates or a festive platter for serving. These cookies are perfect paired with your favorite cup of tea or coffee; they truly shine during cozy gatherings or as delightful gifts wrapped in cheerful packaging.
With each bite of Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies, you’ll experience nostalgia wrapped in sweetness while making new memories this season! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- These delightful Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies are not just any treats; they’re a hug in cookie form.
- With a dusting of powdered sugar and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, they bring warmth to every gathering.
- You can whip them up in no time, making them perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy. Next, gradually add flour and nuts, mixing until just combined. Bake the cookies until golden, then cool before dusting with powdered sugar for that signature touch of sweetness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out walnuts for pecans or even chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous. A splash of vanilla or almond extract can elevate the flavor profile, giving your cookies a personal twist that will impress everyone.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature—no reheating necessary to maintain their delicate texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly textured cookies, make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Avoid overmixing the dough; this keeps the cookies tender and delicious.
- Finally, let the cookies cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar for that irresistible finish.
Baking these Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies always brings back memories of my grandma bustling around the kitchen, her laughter filling the air like the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies. Those were magical moments worth savoring!
FAQs:
What are Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies?
Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies are delightful, buttery treats that melt in your mouth. These cookies are often made with finely chopped nuts, powdered sugar, and a hint of vanilla. They’re typically rolled into small balls and baked until lightly golden. After baking, they are coated in powdered sugar for a sweet finish. This classic recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering, making it a favorite during holidays and special occasions. For more inspiration, check out this snickerdoodle truffles recipe recipe.
How can I store Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies?
To keep your Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their flavor and texture for about one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the cookies. comfort food side dishes Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Can I substitute ingredients in Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies?
Yes! You can customize Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies by substituting some ingredients. For example, if you prefer a nut-free version, replace the nuts with an equal amount of more flour or use seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch. You can also use almond extract instead of vanilla to give a different flavor profile. Just remember that any substitutions may alter the texture slightly.
Are Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies, simply swap regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends designed for baking as they often contain xanthan gum to help mimic the structure of wheat flour. This adjustment allows those with gluten intolerance to enjoy these delicious cookies without compromising on taste or texture.
Conclusion for Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies:
Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies are a timeless treat that everyone loves. Their rich buttery flavor combined with the sweetness of powdered sugar creates an irresistible dessert. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy family moments, these cookies bring joy to any occasion. delicious fall beverages By following this simple recipe and making necessary adjustments based on your preferences, you can enjoy these delightful cookies year-round. Indulge in the warmth of homemade treats and create lasting memories with every bite!
Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Russian
Description
Mom’s Russian Tea Cookies are delightful, buttery bites that melt in your mouth, wrapped in a snowy coating of powdered sugar. With their rich flavor and irresistible texture, they add warmth and joy to any gathering. Perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy afternoons with friends, these easy-to-make cookies require minimal ingredients and will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, divided
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate flour, salt, and chopped nuts until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Shape the dough into small balls (about 1 inch wide) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges turn lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly before rolling in remaining powdered sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 20g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - For a nut-free version, substitute nuts with sunflower seeds. - Swap walnuts for pecans or add chocolate chips for added flavor. - Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
