100 Year Old Tea Cakes
Sweet, nostalgic tea cakes with a tender crumb and a hint of vanilla, perfect for afternoon tea or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter, sugar, and egg to a creamy mixture.
- Add dry ingredients and milk.
- Mix well until dough is stiff, then add a little flour if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute up to half with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can elevate the taste. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add flour until it reaches the desired consistency. Remember to keep the mixing gentle to maintain a light texture.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee during afternoon gatherings. For a special touch, dust them with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with fruit preserves or a side of fresh berries. For more dessert ideas, browse more American recipes for delightful pairings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through, which will help restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 100 Year Old Tea Cakes contains roughly 268 calories, with 4g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2402mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these tea cakes gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to mimic the texture of traditional flour. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, as gluten-free flours can absorb more moisture.
How can I add flavor variations to these tea cakes?
You can enhance the flavor by adding citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to the batter. Alternatively, mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. For a fruity twist, try folding in dried cranberries or raisins, which can also complement the sweetness.
What is the best way to serve these tea cakes for a party?
For a party, consider cutting the tea cakes into bite-sized pieces and arranging them on a platter. You can serve them alongside a selection of dips, such as a sweet cream cheese spread or chocolate ganache. These tea cakes also make a great addition to a dessert table featuring other treats like Easy Cherry Cream Pie.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).