Ammy'S Little Cakes
Delicious little cakes with a tender crumb and subtle almond and vanilla flavors, perfect for parties, teatime, or a sweet treat any time of the day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the sugar and shortening together using an electric mixer.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until well combined.
- Add the vanilla and almond extract, beating after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until incorporated.
- Shape the dough into round balls about 2 inches across.
- Place the balls on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 12 to 15 minutes until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure you cream the sugar and shortening until fluffy. If you’re out of almond extract, you can substitute with additional vanilla or use a few drops of maple extract for a unique flavor twist. Adjust the baking time based on your oven and keep an eye on the cakes to avoid overbaking.
Serving Suggestions
These little cakes are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun twist, drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk. They pair beautifully with Pam'S English Toffee for a sweet treat platter or can be enjoyed as a light dessert after a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in a warm oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ammy'S Little Cakes contains roughly 43 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 use butter instead of shortening?
Yes, you can use butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor. Just be sure to soften it first for proper creaming. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still yield delicious results.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before shaping. This will make it easier to handle. Alternatively, you can dust your hands and the work surface with a little flour while shaping the balls.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit after mixing the dry ingredients. Just be mindful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your cakes.
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).