This study investigated whether removing retrieval cues during foreign language vocabulary practice in a digital learning environment improves memory retention. Based on the Retrieval Effort Hypothesis and the Desirable Difficulties Framework, removing retrieval cues was expected to increase retrieval effort and, in turn, improve memory retention, especially over time. Data from 45,828 StudyGo users were analyzed. Contrary to expectations, participants who practiced with retrieval cues performed slightly better on the final recall test than those who practiced without cues. Importantly, however, time between practice and testing moderated the effect. Participants who did not use cues performed slightly worse after short delays but outperformed those who practiced using cues after longer delays. These findings suggest that, while retrieval cues might promote short-term performance, increased retrieval effort supports more durable learning.