11 Russian Christmas Cookies Slavic Traditions

Курабье (Kурabie) – Shortbread Cookies

Курабье (Kurabie) are delightful Russian shortbread cookies that melt in your mouth and are often enjoyed during festive occasions, especially around Christmas. These treats have a rich, buttery flavor and a crumbly texture that makes them simply irresistible. They can be shaped into delightful forms and sometimes topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will guarantee that your cookies bake evenly.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla: Next, add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Continue to mix on low speed until fully incorporated.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring with a spatula or mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; the dough should be soft and somewhat sticky.
6. Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, you can flatten the balls slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand for a different shape.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies start to turn golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
8. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If you like, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a pretty finishing touch just before serving.
10. Enjoy: Your delicious Курабье (Kurabie) shortbread cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! Perfect as a treat during the holidays or any time of the year.

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Печенье с орехами (Pechenye S Orekhami) – Nut Cookies

Печенье с орехами (Pechenye S Orekhami) are rich and crunchy nut cookies that are a popular treat during the holiday season in Russia. These cookies are made with a delightful mixture of finely chopped nuts, which lend a wonderful texture and flavor. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with tea and coffee, making them a perfect addition to any festive gathering.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees your cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will take about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Crack the egg into the creamed butter and sugar mixture, then add the vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until the egg is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps guarantee that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir using a spatula or mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Incorporate the Nuts: Gently fold in the finely chopped nuts to the dough. Confirm the nuts are evenly dispersed throughout the mixture without overworking the dough.
7. Shape the Cookies: Scoop out small portions of the dough (about 1 tablespoon) and roll them into balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, take the cookies out of the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious печенье с орехами!

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Имбирные пряники (Imbirnye Pryaniki) – Gingerbread Cookies

Имбирные пряники (Imbirnye Pryaniki) are traditional Russian gingerbread cookies that are particularly popular during the holiday season. These spiced cookies are soft, aromatic, and often decorated with icing, making them a festive treat. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and other spices creates a warm flavor that’s perfect for winter celebrations. With their delightful taste and cozy aroma, gingerbread cookies are a favorite for both children and adults alike.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential as it prepares the oven for even baking.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. This guarantees there are no lumps and that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Crack the egg into the creamed mixture and add the honey and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully combined and smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough; it’s okay if some flour pockets remain.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps firm it up, making it easier to roll out.
7. Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, take the dough out from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Cut Out Cookies: Use cookie cutters to shape the cookies as desired, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between the cookies, as they will spread slightly while baking.
9. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers are set but still soft. Be careful not to overbake.
10. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Decorate (Optional): Once the cookies are cool, you can decorate them with icing if desired. Let the icing set before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Имбирные пряники during the festive season, or anytime you need a comforting treat!

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Творожное печенье (Tvorozhnoe Pechenye) – Cottage Cheese Cookies

Творожное печенье (Tvorozhnoe Pechenye) are delicious Russian cottage cheese cookies that are known for their soft, tender texture and slightly sweet flavor. These cookies are simple to make and offer a delightful alternative to traditional cookies, combining the richness of cottage cheese with a hint of vanilla, making them a great treat for any occasion, especially during festive celebrations.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure it is fully heated before placing the cookies in for baking.
2. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and the egg. Use a fork or a whisk to mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.
3. Sift Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the baking powder and guarantees there are no lumps in the flour.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until a dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix; the dough should be cohesive but still slightly sticky.
5. Shape the Cookies: Lightly flour your hands and take small portions of dough to shape them into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread a little while baking.
6. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the bottom and firm to touch. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
7. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
8. Serve: Enjoy your творожное печенье as a delightful snack or dessert with tea or coffee! Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

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Медовые пряники (Medovye Pryaniki) – Honey Cookies

Медовые пряники (Medovye Pryaniki) are traditional Russian honey cookies that are soft, flavorful, and often spiced with cinnamon and other warm spices. These cookies are typically enjoyed during the winter holidays and are known for their rich honey flavor and delightful aroma. They can be decorated with icing or left plain, making them a festive treat perfect for sharing during celebrations.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients and allowing the butter to soften at room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Mix them together until creamy. Then, add the honey and eggs, mixing until well combined.
3. Sift Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. This helps to secure the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, using a spatula or mixer on low speed to combine until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to over-mix; just combine until you no longer see dry flour.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This will make it easier to roll out later.
6. Roll and Cut Shapes: Once chilled, dust your work surface with flour. Roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes out of the dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
8. Cool Down: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Decorate (Optional): If desired, prepare a simple icing by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk until you reach the desired consistency. Decorate the cooled cookies with the icing and let it set before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Медовые пряники!

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Зефир (Zefir) – Russian Meringue

Зефир (Zefir) is a traditional Russian meringue-based confection that has a fluffy, airy texture and a subtle sweetness. It is made from fruit puree, egg whites, and sugar, resulting in a soft and light treat that melts in your mouth. Often flavored with fruits like apples or berries, zefir is a delightful addition to holiday festivities or a sweet treat any time of the year.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Fruit Puree: Begin by cooking your chosen fruit (like apples or berries) until they are soft. Puree the fruit using a blender or food processor until smooth. Measure out 1 cup of fruit puree and set aside to cool.
2. Dissolve Agar-Agar or Gelatin: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of water with the agar-agar or gelatin. Heat the mixture over low heat until it dissolves completely, stirring constantly. Remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whip. Keep whipping until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
4. Combine Fruit Puree: Gently fold the cooled fruit puree and lemon juice into the whipped egg whites. Be careful not to deflate the mixture; the goal is to keep it airy and fluffy.
5. Incorporate Agar-Agar or Gelatin: Slowly drizzle the dissolved agar-agar or gelatin into the fruit and egg white mixture while gently folding. This will help set the zefir once it’s stored in the fridge.
6. Shape the Zefir: Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, pipe small mounds or nests onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can also use a spoon to dollop the mixture if you wish.
7. Let it Set: Allow the zefir to sit at room temperature for a few hours or until they set. If desired, you can place them in the refrigerator for faster setting.
8. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once set, remove the zefir from the baking sheet and dust them with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Enjoy your delicious and light Russian zefir as a lovely treat or dessert!

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Песочное печенье (Pesochnoe Pechenye) – Sand Cookies

Pesochnoe pechenye, or sand cookies, are tender, crumbly cookies that get their name from their sandy texture. These delightful treats are rich in butter and have a melt-in-your-mouth quality, making them a favorite during the holiday season or as an everyday snack. Simple to prepare, they offer a lovely buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This guarantees that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly crumbly.
6. Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten the Cookies: Use the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass to gently flatten each ball slightly. This will give the cookies their characteristic shape.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will harden as they cool.
9. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
10. Serve and Enjoy: These sand cookies are best enjoyed with coffee or tea, and they can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Enjoy your delicious homemade pesochnoe pechenye!

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Ушки с сахаром (Ushki S Sakharom) – Sugar Ears

Ushki s sakharom, or sugar ears, are delightful Russian pastries that are characterized by their cute ear-like shape and sweet, crispy texture. These treats are made from a simple dough that’s rolled and folded with sugar, creating a layered effect that provides a satisfying crunch with each bite. Perfect for tea time or holiday celebrations, these cookies are easy to prepare and a joy to share.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out.
5. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick. Use a rolling pin to verify an even thickness.
6. Cut and Sugar the Dough: Sprinkle a layer of granulated sugar over the rolled-out dough. Fold the rectangle in half lengthwise, making sure that the sugar is enclosed. Roll it out again slightly, and then fold it into thirds like a letter.
7. Cut into Ears: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips about 1 inch wide. Then, take each strip and twist it into an “ear” shape by folding the ends inward towards the center.
8. Bake: Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Cool and Coat: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. While still warm, coat them lightly with granulated sugar for added sweetness.
10. Serve: Once cooled completely, serve your sugar ears alongside tea or coffee, and enjoy the delightful crunch and flavor!

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Кексы (Keksy) – Russian Muffins

Кексы (Keksy) are traditional Russian muffins that are simple to make and incredibly delicious. These moist and fluffy treats can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. They come in various flavors, from fruit to chocolate, and are often enhanced with nuts or spices. Their versatility makes them a beloved choice in Russian households.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Milk: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and any optional spices if desired (like cinnamon or nutmeg).
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, gently folding them together with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to over-mix; just stir until the flour is incorporated.
6. Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re including any fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter now.
7. Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full to allow for rising during baking.
8. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown.
9. Cool: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own or paired with butter, jam, or your favorite spread. Enjoy!

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Яблочные пирожки (Yablochnye Pirozhki) – Apple Pastries

Яблочные пирожки are traditional Russian pastries filled with sweet apple mixtures, often spiced with cinnamon and sugar. These delightful little pies are perfect for dessert or as a snack, and are beloved for their flaky crust and warm, fruity filling. They can be baked or fried, and when freshly made, they are irresistibly delicious.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the diced chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Sour Cream: Pour in the sour cream and mix until the dough comes together. Avoid over-kneading. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Make the Apple Filling: While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, mix the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has chilled, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough, roughly 4-5 inches in diameter.
5. Fill the Pastries: Place a tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill to prevent spills during baking.
6. Seal the Pastries: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.
7. Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the filled pastries on the baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning.
9. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious яблочные пирожки!

Ванильные пирожные (Vanilnye Pirozhnye) – Vanilla Treats

Ванильные пирожные (Vanilnye Pirozhnye) are delightful Russian vanilla treats known for their delicate flavor and soft texture. These light and airy pastries are often served as a dessert or snack and are loved for their subtle sweetness and aromatic vanilla essence. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of tea, these pastries are bound to impress.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that the oven is ready for baking once the batter is prepared.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and continue to mix until fully incorporated.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour.
5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start by adding a third of the flour mixture, followed by half of the milk, mixing well to combine. Repeat this process until all the flour and milk are incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
6. Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can use an 8×8 inch square pan or a similar-sized cake pan for this recipe.
7. Pour the Batter: Once the batter is well combined, pour it into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring the batter reaches the edges of the pan.
8. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the vanilla treats to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the treats are completely cool, sift powdered sugar over the top for a touch of sweetness and presentation.
11. Serve: Cut the vanilla treats into squares or rectangles. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, perfect for sharing with friends and family alongside a cup of tea or coffee.