Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
- Additional powdered sugar for rolling
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
5. Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in chopped walnuts.
7. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
10. Roll warm cookies in additional powdered sugar until coated.
11. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
400°F
Serving size:
Makes approximately 36 cookies
Nutritional information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but omit the additional salt.
- Pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts.
Variations:
- Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a spiced version.
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate version.
- Roll cookies in colored sugar or sprinkles for a festive touch.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don't overmix the dough or the cookies will be tough.
- Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes before rolling in powdered sugar to prevent them from falling apart.
Storage instructions:
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
These cookies are best served at room temperature and do not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange cookies on a platter and dust with additional powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped nuts or drizzle with melted chocolate for a fancier presentation.
Pairings:
Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a classic pairing.
Suggested side dishes:
These cookies are a sweet treat on their own and do not require any additional side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to moisten it.
- If the cookies spread too much during baking, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash your hands before handling food to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Russian Tea Cakes, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Snowballs, are a traditional dessert that originated in Eastern Europe. They are often served during the holiday season and are a popular treat in many cultures.
Flavor profiles:
These cookies are buttery and nutty with a sweet and powdery finish.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these cookies as a sweet treat after dinner or as a snack with a hot beverage.
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