A Delicious and Easy Guide to a Cocoa Twist in Just 30 Minutes!
There’s something magical about baking that brings families together, and Chocolate Russian Tea Cakes are no exception. These delightful, bite-sized treats take a classic recipe and infuse it with a rich cocoa twist, perfect for chocolate lovers of all ages. Their crumbly texture, paired with the indulgence of powdered sugar and chocolate, makes them an irresistible addition to any family gathering or cozy afternoon tea.
Whether you're looking to create sweet memories in the kitchen with your little ones or need a quick dessert to wow your guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, with an estimated prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy families. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create these delectable cocoa gems!
Ingredients List
Gather these ingredients for approximately 20-24 cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Optional: For a festive twist, add a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of orange zest.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Chocolate Russian Tea Cakes is as much about the process as the result. Get the kids involved and enjoy the journey!
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is perfect for little hands holding a mixer or whisk.
3. Add Vanilla and Cocoa:
Mix in the vanilla extract and cocoa powder until fully incorporated. Watch your kids’ faces light up as the mixture turns a rich chocolatey brown.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring gently. If you're using nuts, fold them in now. Encourage your kids to help measure and pour it’s a fun way to practice math skills!
5. Form the Dough Balls:
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Let your little ones roll the dough; it’s messy but oh-so-fun!
6. Bake:
Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-14 minutes, just until the bottoms are lightly golden.
7. Powdered Sugar Coating:
While the cookies are still warm, roll them gently in powdered sugar. For extra sweetness, repeat the coating once the cookies are cool. Kids love this step it’s like rolling snowballs!
Estimated Cooking & Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
This timeline ensures you can whip up these treats even on the busiest of days!
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 4g
- Key Nutrients: Iron (from cocoa), Vitamin E (if using nuts)
Chocolate Russian Tea Cakes are a delightful treat that satisfies a sweet tooth without going overboard on sugar, making them a family-friendly indulgence.
Serve these Chocolate Russian Tea Cakes with a warm cup of tea or a glass of milk for a comforting snack. They also make wonderful gifts during the holidays just package them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade present.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer-lasting freshness. These cookies are just as delightful thawed as they are fresh out of the oven!
Cooking with your kids doesn’t have to be a marathon it can be a quick, joyful experience that ends in delicious rewards. Try this recipe and let your creativity shine. Maybe add a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of edible glitter for extra flair.
We’d love to hear how your family enjoyed these Chocolate Russian Tea Cakes! Share your own creative twists or leave a review in the comments. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more family-friendly recipes and follow us on social media for daily inspiration.
Cooking with my boys always fills our kitchen with laughter and sweet memories. I hope you and your family find the same joy in this recipe. Happy baking!
