Butter Cookies(Tea Cakes)
Delicate butter cookies with a rich, buttery flavor and subtle vanilla notes, perfect for teatime or special occasions, appealing to both casual bakers and connoisseurs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter until smooth.
- Add sugar and stir thoroughly to combine.
- Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla until well blended.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk.
- Stir thoroughly until the dough is smooth.
- Press the dough through a cookie maker or pipe onto a baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at approximately 400°F (about 10 minutes) until edges are golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. If you don’t have milk or cream, you can substitute with water or a non-dairy milk. For added flavor, consider including almond extract in addition to the vanilla. If you prefer a softer texture, slightly reduce the baking time or adjust the flour to suit your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These butter cookies are perfect for tea time or as a simple dessert. Serve them alongside coffee or tea, or pair them with My Favorite Cranberry Salad for a delightful contrast. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of sweetness or enjoy them plain for a classic treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Cookies(Tea Cakes) contains roughly 149 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 15g 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 margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies. Choose a stick margarine for best results, and ensure it’s softened before creaming.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding zest from a lemon or orange, or incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and taste.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough is too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, which will make it easier to handle. Alternatively, you can add a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
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).