Russian tea cakes coated in confectioner's sugar |
|
| Origin | |
|---|---|
| Alternative name(s) | Mexican wedding cakes, butterballs |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Region or state | United States of America |
| Dish details | |
| Course served | Dessert |
| Serving temperature | Hot or cold |
| Main ingredient(s) | Nuts, Butter |
A Russian tea cake is a kind of pastry, commonly eaten around Christmas in both Russia and the United States. It is a form of jumble, a pastry common in Middle Ages England. They are also known as Mexican wedding cakes (or cookies) and butterballs.
Russian tea cakes have a relatively simple recipe, generally consisting entirely of ground nuts, flour and water or, more commonly, butter. After baking, they are coated in powdered sugar while still hot, then again once the cookie has cooled.[1]
Russian tea cakes appeared in Russia in the 18th century as a confection used in a tea-sharing ceremony. By the 20th century, they were a part of wedding and Christmas traditions in the U.S., known by their popular "Russian tea" name. Mexican Wedding Cookies, and Bizcochitos, the official cookie of the State of New Mexico, are similar except that they have the addition of anise, although, properly made, the anise flavor is very mild. Many cultures have a similar cookie. In Spain, they are called Mantecosos.