How to Enjoy Authentic Russian Tea Cakes for the Holidays
When the holidays come around, everyone looks forward to the seasonal goodies. And no collection of goodies is complete without a box or two of Russian Tea Cakes. These classic Christmas cookies is a staple in many a holiday table. But what is it that makes Russian Tea Cakes so special and festive?
Russian Tea Cakes, also known as Mexican Wedding Cakes or Snowball Cookies, are a unique set of nut-based pastries that are a popular dessert throughout Europe and North America. These delicate, spiced cookies are often served to guests during holiday dinners and celebrations.
What makes Russian Tea Cakes special is their delicate texture and traditional flavor. These cookies are made with ground nuts, usually almonds, as well as butter, sugar, and vanilla. They are lightly spiced with vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and rolled in powdered sugar. This light and fluffy texture melts in the mouth, making them a perfect complement to tea or coffee.
How to Serve Russian Tea Cakes
When it comes to serving Russian Tea Cakes, the possibilities are endless. These cookies can be served plain or topped with a dollop of cream cheese or yogurt, or lightly dusted with icing sugar. They can be served with ice cream or fruit sauces or even dipped in hot chocolate.
For a more creative take, Russian Tea Cakes can be used as an ingredient in a number of desserts, from parfaits to cakes. They can be layered with pudding or cream mixtures, and can be used as a topper for ice cream sundaes. They can even be used as a crust for pies or tarts.
Tips for Baking Russian Tea Cakes
Baking Russian Tea Cakes is easy and rewarding. Here are some tips to help you get the most from this classic Christmas cookie:
- Be sure to use unsalted butter and all-purpose flour to keep the cookies light and fluffy.
- Ground nuts are essential for the traditional flavor, but you can also try substituting other nuts if desired.
- Be gentle when rolling the cookie dough balls in the powdered sugar, as these cookies are very delicate and can easily crumble.
Follow these tips, and you'll be sure to have a delectable batch of Russian Tea Cakes to enjoy this holiday season.