Good Old-Fashioned Tea Cakes
Golden, crispy on the outside and tender inside, these nostalgic tea cakes feature sweet flavors and a buttery texture, perfect for teatime or a quick treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients until well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Flatten each with a glass dipped in sugar.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the Crisco with unsalted butter. If you prefer a hint of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. To enhance sweetness, you can use brown sugar instead of white sugar. Make sure to measure your flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off, as too much flour can lead to dry cakes.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. For an extra treat, serve them with Lemon Fruit Sauce for a refreshing twist. They can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert, and are especially nice alongside light, fruity desserts or even a savory option like Spinach Appetizer Squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Old-Fashioned Tea Cakes contains roughly 720 calories, with 11g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1274mg 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 Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute Crisco with an equal amount of unsalted butter or a plant-based margarine for a different flavor. Each option will yield slightly different results in texture and taste, so choose according to your preference. If using butter, ensure it is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be cautious not to add too much flour, as it could make the tea cakes dense. Alternatively, you can chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, which often helps in making it easier to work with.
How do I know when the tea cakes are done baking?
The tea cakes are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly. Let them cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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).