Dainty Little Tea Cookies
Delicately sweet and buttery, these dainty tea cookies are perfect for an afternoon treat or sharing with friends over a cup of tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, with mixer at low speed, beat flour, margarine, sugar, vanilla, and salt until well blended, occasionally scraping the bowl with a rubber scraper.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a lightly floured surface with floured hands, shape dough into small balls using about 1 teaspoon of dough for each.
- Place cookies on an ungreased large cookie sheet.
- With the side of a fork or the edge of a knife, mark each cookie crosswise several times.
- Bake cookies for 10 to 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cool for 5 minutes, then gently remove with a spatula.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing, and add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, festive touch. These dainty cookies can be easily decorated with icing or sprinkles for special occasions.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cookies are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings. They pair beautifully with Hot Spiced Cranberry Punch for a festive touch. For a more elaborate treat, serve alongside fresh fruit or a light cheese platter. They also make great gifts when packaged in a decorative tin.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until they are just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dainty Little Tea Cookies contains roughly 17 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 freeze these tea cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I use instead of sugar?
You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia, depending on your dietary preferences. Keep in mind that using a liquid sweetener may change the texture slightly, so adjust the flour accordingly to maintain consistency.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of these cookies, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract in addition to the vanilla. You might also fold in chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and taste. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon or cardamom can also elevate the overall flavor profile.
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).