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Shell-Shaped Cookies with Condensed Milk: The Complete Guide to Perfect Treats

Alexander Neverov
1 Aug 2025
Russian tea cookies, affectionately known as "oreshki" (little nuts), have been warming hearts since Soviet times. These delicate shell-shaped treats became particularly popular in the 1970s when special baking molds became widely available. What makes them special:
  • Originally featured in women's magazines as affordable holiday treats
  • Regional variations include different shapes and names
  • The perfect balance of crisp shell and creamy filling
  • A staple at family gatherings and tea parties

The Classic Recipe Perfected

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Cookie Shells:
  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (225g) high-quality butter (chilled)
  • ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • Pinch of fine sea salt
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tbsp ice water (if needed)
For the Luscious Filling:
  • 14 oz (400g) dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup (115g) softened butter
  • 1 tbsp brandy or lemon juice
  • ½ tsp vanilla bean paste

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

1. Preparing the Perfect Dough:
  • Sift flour and salt together in a large bowl
  • Cut in chilled butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs
  • Incorporate egg yolks, powdered sugar, and vanilla
  • Gently knead just until dough comes together
  • Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 40 minutes
2. Shaping the Shells:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
  • Roll dough to 1/8-inch (3mm) thickness
  • Cut 2-inch (5cm) circles using a cookie cutter
  • Press into oreshki molds, trimming excess dough
  • Bake for 14-16 minutes until pale golden
  • Cool completely before removing from molds
3. Making the Silky Filling:
  • Whip softened butter until light and fluffy
  • Gradually add dulce de leche while mixing
  • Blend in brandy and vanilla paste
  • Whip for 3-4 minutes until perfectly smooth
4. Assembling Your Masterpiece:
  • Transfer filling to a piping bag
  • Pipe generous amount onto flat cookie halves
  • Gently press matching halves together
  • Optional: Roll edges in finely chopped nuts
Enjoy the comfort of home with Cosy Cuisine!
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Pro Tips for Baking Success

Dough Secrets:
  • Keep ingredients cold for flaky texture
  • Handle dough minimally to prevent toughness
  • If crumbly, add ice water 1 tsp at a time
Troubleshooting:
  • Grease molds thoroughly to prevent sticking
  • Don't overfill - shells may break
  • Let cool completely before removing
Presentation Ideas:
  • Package in decorative candy cups
  • Arrange on vintage tea trays
  • Gift in beautiful handmade boxes

Creative Variations to Try

1. Dietary Adaptations:
  • Gluten-free: Use almond flour blend
  • Vegan: Coconut oil + aquafaba substitute
  • Sugar-free: Erythritol sweetened filling
2. Flavor Twists:
  • Chocolate: Add cocoa to dough or filling
  • Coffee: Infuse filling with espresso
  • Citrus: Add zest to the dough
3. Festive Decorations:
  • Edible gold leaf for special occasions
  • Drizzle with tempered chocolate
  • Dust with matcha or cocoa powder

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dough stick to the mold?
  • Dough wasn't chilled enough
  • Insufficient greasing
  • Rolled too thin
How to make perfect dulce de leche?
  1. Submerge unopened can in water
  2. Simmer for 3 hours (check water level)
  3. Cool completely before opening
Can I freeze assembled cookies?
It's better to freeze shells and fill separately. Assembled cookies may soften.

Why These Cookies Belong in Your Repertoire

  1. Nostalgic Charm - A taste of Russian tradition
  2. Versatile - Perfect for any occasion
  3. Budget-Friendly - Simple, accessible ingredients
  4. Impressive Presentation - Looks professional with minimal effort
Final Tip: Double the recipe - these disappear fast! For an aromatic twist, add a pinch of cardamom or orange zest to the dough. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week (if they last that long!).
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