Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Stir in the chopped walnuts and maple syrup until evenly distributed.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
9. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar until coated.
10. Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes approximately 24 cookies
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1 cookie):
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 50mg
Total Carbohydrates: 11g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon.
- Pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts.
- Honey or agave nectar can be used instead of maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced flavor.
- Use different types of nuts or a combination of nuts for a different flavor profile.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth dough.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling into balls for easier handling.
- Roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice for a thicker coating.
Storage instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
The cookies can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes to refresh them.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a platter and sprinkle with additional powdered sugar for a festive look.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped walnuts or a drizzle of maple syrup over the cookies for added flavor and texture.
Pairings:
Serve the cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Suggested side dishes:
These cookies are perfect on their own, but can also be served with fresh fruit or a cheese plate for a more substantial snack.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of milk to bring it together.
- If the cookies spread too much during baking, chill the dough for an additional 30 minutes before baking.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment before preparing the recipe to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Russian tea cakes, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or snowballs, are a traditional holiday cookie that originated in Russia. They are typically made with butter, powdered sugar, and nuts, and are rolled in powdered sugar after baking.
Flavor profiles:
These cookies have a buttery, nutty flavor with a hint of maple sweetness.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these cookies as a sweet treat with tea or coffee, or as a dessert at holiday gatherings.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Buttery, Maple, Maple-Flavored