Russian Tea Cookies
These delicate Russian Tea Cookies are a delightful treat, featuring a buttery base enriched with finely chopped nuts and a hint of vanilla. Rolled in confectioners' sugar, they offer a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Perfect for holiday gatherings or afternoon tea, they appeal to anyone who enjoys classic baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and confectioners sugar together until smooth.
- Add vanilla, flour, salt, and chopped nuts. Mix well until combined.
- Form the dough into dime-sized balls or flatten them if preferred. Place on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake at 250°F for 25 minutes.
- While still warm, roll the cookies in confectioners sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. If you want a nut-free version, you can replace the chopped nuts with an equal amount of finely grated coconut. Ensure you sift the flour for a lighter texture. Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the flour, as this can result in tougher cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or tea parties, pairing beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat alongside a slice of French Pound Cake. For an elegant presentation, serve them on a decorative platter dusted with extra confectioners sugar for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Russian tea cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their powdery sugar coating, you may want to wait until just before serving to roll them in confectioners sugar again. They can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Russian Tea Cookies contains roughly 1376 calories, with 0g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1750mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute any finely chopped nuts you prefer, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Just ensure they are finely chopped to maintain the texture of the cookies. Each type of nut will impart a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, you can roll the formed cookie balls and freeze them. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).