Aunt Ab'S Tea Cakes
Aunt Ab'S Tea Cakes are light, crisp cookies with a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of sugar, perfect for teatime or sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use enough plain flour to make a good dough.
- Mix all the other ingredients in until the dough can be rolled out.
- Roll out very thin and cut with a biscuit cutter.
- Sprinkle sugar on top if desired.
- Bake at 350°F until brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure your lard is softened but not melted. If you prefer a lighter option, consider substituting half of the lard with unsalted butter. For added flavor, you can mix in a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm twist.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee. For a special touch, pair them with a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve them alongside Sweet Potato Pudding (Century-Old Recipe) for a comforting dessert spread. Consider garnishing with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Ab'S Tea Cakes contains roughly 122 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 542mg per serving (24% 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 use a different type of fat instead of lard?
Yes, you can substitute lard with unsalted butter or vegetable shortening for a similar texture. However, using butter will impart a richer flavor. If you opt for a dairy-free alternative, coconut oil can work well, though it may slightly alter the taste and texture.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a scant cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and help achieve the right dough consistency.
How can I make these tea cakes more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider incorporating colorful sprinkles on top before baking or using cookie cutters in fun shapes for holidays. You can also drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cakes for extra sweetness and visual appeal, making them perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
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).