Grandma'S Teacakes
Grandma's Teacakes are soft, buttery cookies with a delicate crumb, perfect for teatime or sharing with loved ones. They offer a nostalgic, sweet flavor with vanilla hints.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together shortening and sugar.
- Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture.
- Alternate adding flour and buttermilk to the mixture.
- Add vanilla extract.
- Cover the dough and chill for 1 hour.
- Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut out cookies and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until light brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure that your shortening is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes. To add a twist, consider incorporating lemon zest or almond extract for a unique flavor variation.
Serving Suggestions
These teacakes are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider dusting them with powdered sugar or serving them with homemade jam. They pair beautifully with My Favorite Zucchini Nut Bread for a charming brunch spread, or as a sweet treat alongside a fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover teacakes 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 place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, preserving their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Teacakes contains roughly 2417 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 243g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 butter or margarine for the shortening. Keep in mind that using butter will give the teacakes a richer flavor and slightly different texture. If you opt for margarine, choose a stick form for the best results.
How do I know when the teacakes are done baking?
The teacakes are done when they turn light brown on the edges and feel firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, they are ready. Keep a close eye on them as oven temperatures can vary.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can enhance the flavor. Just fold them into the dough after adding the vanilla extract. Be mindful of the total amount of mix-ins to maintain the right dough consistency.
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).