Grandma Abie'S Tea Cakes
Grandma Abie's Tea Cakes are classic, tender treats with a hint of vanilla, perfect for tea time or sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together butter and sugar.
- Add eggs and vanilla. Add baking soda.
- Add buttermilk.
- Add flour alternately until the dough will not stick to hands.
- Roll the dough thin or thick, cut into desired shapes.
- Bake at 300° or 375° until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of plain flour. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure that the butter is softened but not melted for optimal creaming. If the dough gets too sticky, add a little extra flour gradually. For added flavor, you can mix in some lemon zest or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more festive touch, consider serving them alongside a rich chocolate dessert like Chocolate Cookie Sheet Cake(Mouth Watering). They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters for gatherings or afternoon tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Abie'S Tea Cakes contains roughly 1089 calories, with 22g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (48% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 860mg per serving (37% 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 flour for this recipe?
Yes, while plain flour is recommended for traditional tea cakes, you can experiment with other flours like almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free option. Keep in mind that different flours may absorb moisture differently, so adjust the liquid ingredients as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
How do I know when the tea cakes are done baking?
The tea cakes are done when they are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on thickness, so start checking around 10-15 minutes if rolled thin. Keep an eye on them, especially if you choose to bake at a higher temperature.
Can I add mix-ins to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful of how these ingredients may affect the dough’s consistency, and adjust the flour accordingly if necessary.
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).