Country Style Tea Cakes
Country Style Tea Cakes are crisp, buttery cookies with a delicate vanilla flavor, perfect for teatime or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter and sugar together until well combined.
- Add vanilla and eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Combine flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar; add gradually to the mixture, alternating with milk, and beat well after each addition.
- Roll the dough thin and cut into desired shapes with a cookie cutter.
- Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute half of the butter with applesauce for a lighter version. If you want to add a twist, try incorporating lemon zest or almond extract instead of vanilla. Make sure to roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful tea cakes alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Doris' Ultimate Southern Pecan Pie for a dessert spread. For a fun twist, try adding a drizzle of icing or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain freshness, you can also freeze the cookies for up to three months. If reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Style Tea Cakes contains roughly 480 calories, with 1g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1254mg per serving (55% 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 butter?
Yes, you can substitute butter with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the tea cakes, so choose a fat that complements your taste preferences.
What if I don't have cream of tartar?
If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of baking powder. Alternatively, using vinegar or lemon juice can also provide the necessary acidity to help the dough rise.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits can enhance the flavor and texture of your tea cakes. Just make sure to fold them in gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients.
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).