Good Tea Cakes
Delicious tea cakes with a tender crumb, subtly sweet and rich with vanilla, perfect for serving with tea or as a sweet snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the sugar, egg, margarine, and oil.
- Add the remaining ingredients: flour, soda, salt, and vanilla; mix well.
- Spray or grease cookie sheets; roll dough into small balls.
- Press each ball with a fork or hand to flatten slightly.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 12 to 15 minutes.
- Arrange around 12 cookies on each cookie sheet.
- Remove from oven and cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you want a different texture, try substituting half of the plain flour with almond flour for a nutty taste. You can also add chocolate chips or nuts for extra crunch. Ensure you mix the dough thoroughly to avoid uneven baking, and keep an eye on the cookies as they approach the end of the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful on their own or paired with a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun twist, try serving them with Aunt Grace's Chewy Chocolate Sauce for dipping. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside Meringue Turtle Doves or Fresh Pineapple Delight at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, place them in the refrigerator. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Tea Cakes contains roughly 126 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 8g 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 a different type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute the oil with coconut oil or vegetable oil, which will still provide moisture to the cookies. Just be mindful that coconut oil may impart a slight coconut flavor, which can be a nice addition.
What if I don't have plain flour?
If you don't have plain flour, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute. Alternatively, a gluten-free flour blend can work, but make sure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.
How can I make these tea cakes more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider adding sprinkles or colored sugar on top before baking. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough, or even drizzle with a simple icing after they cool for a special occasion.
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).