The traditional Russian tea cakes, also known as “pryaniki,” are a staple of Russian culture and a delight to indulge in. These sweet treats have been a part of Russian tradition for centuries, often served at special occasions such as weddings and holidays. With their delicate flavors and intricate designs, it’s no wonder why these tea cakes remain a favorite among Russians and non-Russians alike.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 classic Russian tea cake recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to innovative twists with modern flavors, we’ve got it all covered. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or a unique dessert to serve at your next gathering, these Russian tea cakes are sure to impress.
Traditional Russian Tea Cakes with Powdered Sugar
Traditional Russian Tea Cakes with Powdered Sugar: A Classic Holiday Treat
These tender, buttery tea cakes are a staple of Russian holiday celebrations, and their sweet powdered sugar coating adds an extra layer of festive flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add flour and baking powder; mix until just combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each cake.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: About 24 tea cakes
Buttery Walnut Russian Tea Cookies
These rich, buttery cookies get an added boost of flavor and texture from the addition of toasted walnuts. Perfect for dunking in your favorite tea or coffee, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in walnuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Vanilla Almond Snowball Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the warm flavors of vanilla and almond, making them a perfect treat for any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a batch ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, then stir in almonds.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cinnamon Spiced Russian Tea Cakes
These tender, sweet treats are infused with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and perfect for a cozy afternoon or holiday gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delightful cakes in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chopped walnuts, if using.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cake.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pecan Crusted Russian Tea Balls
These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering or snack time. The combination of rich tea-soaked raisins, sweet pecans, and crunchy cookie crumbs will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup strong brewed tea (cooled)
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped pecans and cooled tea-soaked raisins.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls, about 20-25 per recipe.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten-Free Russian Tea Cake Bites
These bite-sized treats are a delicious twist on the classic Russian tea cake, made gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions. With their buttery flavor and crumbly texture, they’re perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Roll into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hazelnut-Chocolate Russian Tea Cookies
These crunchy, chewy cookies are infused with the rich flavors of hazelnuts and dark chocolate. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and hazelnuts. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture and mix until combined.
4. Stir in dark chocolate chips. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Orange Zest Infused Snowball Cookies
These Orange Zest Infused Snowball Cookies combine the classic snowball cookie with the bright, citrusy flavor of orange zest. Perfect for a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange zest (from about 1 orange)
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add orange zest and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Cool on wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cardamom-Scented Russian Tea Cakes
These sweet treats are infused with the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom and perfect for dunking in your favorite hot beverage. With a tender crumb and a hint of spice, they’re sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add cardamom and whisk until combined.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cake.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Glazed Russian Tea Cookies
These buttery cookies are infused with a bright and citrusy lemon glaze, making them a refreshing twist on the classic Russian tea cookie recipe. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and lemon juice.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Whisk together until smooth and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Coconut Coated Russian Tea Balls
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these crispy Coconut Coated Russian Tea Balls. A classic Russian treat gets a tropical twist, making them irresistible to snack on.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup coconut flakes
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms. Divide into 4 equal parts.
4. Roll each part into a ball, then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Dip each disk into melted coconut flakes, coating evenly. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
7. Dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and serve.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Double Chocolate Russian Tea Cakes
Rich, moist, and indulgently chocolatey, these Russian tea cakes are a perfect treat for any occasion. With their crunchy exterior and soft interior, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and brown sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments. Fold into the dough.
6. Roll into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) between each cake.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Pecan Snowball Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warmth of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans, perfect for a sweet treat during the winter months.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in maple syrup and egg.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in chopped pecans.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool on baking sheet before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Rosewater Russian Tea Cakes
These tender cookies are infused with the sweet, floral flavor of rosewater and the warmth of Russian tea. Perfect for dunking in your favorite brew or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons rosewater
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in rosewater.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio Crusted Russian Tea Cookies
Elevate your classic cookie game with the addition of crunchy pistachios and a hint of nutty flavor. These buttery treats are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped pistachios.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Espresso-Infused Snowball Cookies
These cookies combine the richness of espresso with the classic sweetness of snowball cookies, creating a unique and delicious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and espresso powder until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and flour mixture; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gingerbread Russian Tea Cakes
These soft and spicy cookies are perfect for a cozy gathering or as a sweet treat any time of the year. The addition of crystallized ginger adds a nice depth to the classic Russian tea cake flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in chopped crystallized ginger.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Vegan Russian Tea Cookies with Almond Flour
Experience the classic flavor of Russian tea cookies, now veganized using almond flour and plant-based ingredients. These chewy treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying true to your dietary preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup vegan butter, softened (such as Earth Balance)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together maple syrup and vegan butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in chopped nuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cherry-Filled Russian Tea Balls
Cherry-Filled Russian Tea Balls Recipe: A Sweet Treat with a Twist!
These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering or party. With a surprise burst of cherry filling, they’re sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cherry filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into circles or shapes of your choice.
6. Place a small spoonful of cherry filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Sugar Russian Tea Cakes with Walnuts
A classic holiday treat gets a boost from brown sugar and crunchy walnuts. These Russian tea cakes are perfect for snacking or gifting to loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of traditional Russian tea cakes with our collection of 20 classic recipes. From buttery walnut cookies to cinnamon spiced tea cakes, and from hazelnut-chocolate treats to rosewater-infused delights, there’s something for every palate. Enjoy the simple pleasure of powdered sugar-dusted snowballs or the indulgence of double chocolate cakes. Whether you’re a fan of nuts, spices, or fruit, our recipes will transport you to the heart of Russia with every bite. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of Russian hospitality.
