Gems
Gems are light, flaky baked treats similar to scones, perfect for breakfast or tea time, enjoyed with butter, jelly, or oleo, appealing to the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add sugar and melted shortening to the beaten egg.
- Alternately add flour, salt, and baking powder with milk to the mixture.
- Drop the dough by tablespoons onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Serve these for breakfast with butter, oleo, or jelly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, although it may slightly alter the texture. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. If you prefer a sweeter treat, increase the sugar to 3/4 cup. This recipe is versatile; you could even add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful Gems warm with a spread of butter, oleo, or your favorite jelly for breakfast. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt. For a special treat, consider serving them alongside Cottage Pudding With Lemon Sauce for a delightful brunch spread. They also make a great snack any time of the day!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Gems in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until heated through, which helps retain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gems contains roughly 343 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1972mg per serving (86% 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 make these Gems ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it convenient for serving fresh cookies in the morning.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to add too much, as this can affect the final texture.
Can I substitute almond milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! Almond milk can be used as a substitute for regular milk without affecting the overall texture significantly. Just ensure that it's unsweetened if you want to maintain the intended sweetness of the recipe.
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).