Grandma Annie Webster Tea Cakes
Grandma Annie Webster Tea Cakes are tender, lightly sweetened cookies with vanilla flavor, perfect for teatime or special gatherings, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Work enough flour into dough to be able to roll out with a rolling pin.
- Cut with a cutter.
- Bake on a greased cookie sheet at 400° for 6 to 7 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal texture, ensure your shortening is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a slightly healthier option, replace half of the shortening with applesauce or yogurt. For added flavor, consider incorporating lemon zest or almond extract. When rolling out the dough, use flour on your surface to prevent sticking. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add more flour until manageable.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful on their own but can also be served with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter alongside cookies like Pioneer Sugar Cookies or Oatmeal Cookies With Walnuts.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or microwave them briefly until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Annie Webster Tea Cakes contains roughly 661 calories, with 9g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1065mg per serving (46% 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 shortening?
Yes, you can substitute shortening with an equal amount of butter or margarine for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce, but be aware that this may change the texture slightly.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to roll out, gradually add more sifted flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Make sure to flour your rolling surface and the rolling pin to prevent sticking during the rolling process.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your tea cakes by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also enhance the flavor, making it a unique twist on the classic 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).