Crumbly Almond Russian Tea Cakes are delightful treats that remind us of cozy gatherings and festive occasions. With their tender, buttery texture and the nutty flavor of almonds, these cookies melt in your mouth and offer a nostalgic taste that many love. Ideal for sharing over a cup of tea or coffee, they make a perfect addition to any dessert table, especially during the holiday season.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 150
Protein: 2 grams
Carbohydrates: 19 grams
Fat: 8 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 30 mg

Why Make This Crumbly Almond Russian Tea Cakes

Crumbly Almond Russian Tea Cakes are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Their light, crumbly texture combined with the rich flavor of butter and almonds makes them irresistible. These cookies are versatile – perfect for holiday celebrations, afternoon tea, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with your loved ones. Plus, rolling them in powdered sugar adds an elegant touch that makes them look as delightful as they taste.

How to Make Crumbly Almond Russian Tea Cakes

Ingredients:

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
1 cup finely chopped almonds
Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s perfectly warm when you’re ready to bake your cookies.
Step 2: Mixing

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will create a wonderful base for your cookies. Next, stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until combined. Be careful not to overmix; just blend until you no longer see the flour. Then, fold in the finely chopped almonds. They will add a delightful crunch and rich flavor to your cakes.
Step 4: Shaping and Cooking

Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking; they should remain pale in color.
Step 5: Finishing

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly. While warm, roll them in additional powdered sugar for that beautiful, snowy finish. Allow them to cool completely before serving to enhance their texture.

How to Serve Crumbly Almond Russian Tea Cakes

These delightful cookies are best served with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They also make great hors d’oeuvres for festive gatherings or as a sweet snack during afternoon tea. Place them on a decorative platter to add a charming touch to your dessert table.

How to Store Crumbly Almond Russian Tea Cakes

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Expert Tips for Perfect Crumbly Almond Russian Tea Cakes

For an extra nutty flavor, toast the chopped almonds in the oven for a few minutes before adding them to the dough.
Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing, which helps achieve that fluffy texture.
If you don’t have almonds, pecans or walnuts can be excellent substitutes.
Adjust the amount of powdered sugar you roll the cookies in based on your sweetness preference – you can taste as you go!

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Chip Almond Cookies: Add mini chocolate chips alongside the chopped almonds for a sweet twist.
Spiced Version: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
Lemon Almond Tea Cakes: Add the zest of a lemon to the dough for a refreshing citrus note.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter?
Yes, if you use salted butter, omit the 1/4 teaspoon of salt in the recipe to maintain balance.
Can these cookies be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
What if I can’t find finely chopped almonds?
You can chop whole almonds in a food processor or use almond meal for a finer texture.
How can I make them gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Is there a dairy-free option for these cookies?
Yes, you can replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Conclusion

Crumbly Almond Russian Tea Cakes are a classic treat that brings warmth and joy with each bite. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a perfect match for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon coffee break or a festive holiday gathering. With the easy steps provided, you can create these delightful cookies in no time. Embrace the delightful flavors and aromas that fill your kitchen, and don’t hesitate to share them with family and friends. Enjoy baking and savoring this beautiful recipe!