German Tea Cookies
Delicate German Tea Cookies feature buttery richness complemented by chopped nuts, coated in powdered sugar for a melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect with afternoon tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix softened butter, vanilla, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and chopped nuts together to form a dough.
- Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and immediately place cookies on a sheet covered with sifted powdered sugar.
- Sift additional powdered sugar on top of the cookies before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour or finely ground nuts. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, increase the powdered sugar slightly. To ensure uniform baking, keep the cookie balls similar in size and shape. If you're looking for more festive options, check out Mom'S Scotch Shortbread for another delightful treat.
Serving Suggestions
These German Tea Cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings. You can also serve them alongside Swedish Gingerbread Cookies for a delightful cookie platter. For added flair, consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving for a warming spice note.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through, restoring their fresh texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Tea Cookies contains roughly 161 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 7g 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 in place of butter, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor. For the best results, choose a high-quality margarine that closely resembles butter in fat content. Keep in mind that the cookies might spread more while baking.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
While any chopped nuts can be used, walnuts and pecans are particularly popular choices due to their rich flavor. If you're looking for a more unique twist, try using hazelnuts or almonds. Just ensure that whatever nuts you choose are finely chopped for even distribution in the dough.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free German Tea Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Ensure your powdered sugar is also gluten-free. Additionally, check that the nuts you use are processed in a gluten-free facility to avoid cross-contamination.
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).