Grandmother'S Old-Fashioned Tea Cakes

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 30 Cuisine: American

Grandmother's Old-Fashioned Tea Cakes are tender, buttery cookies with a hint of vanilla, perfect for teatime or sharing with loved ones. Their simple ingredients and nostalgic flavor make them a delightful treat for all ages, evoking warm memories and classic comfort in every bite.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb butter
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla
  • 3 cups plain flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Cream butter gradually; add sugar.
  2. Add eggs and vanilla to the creamed mixture.
  3. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt; add to the mixture.
  4. Place 1 tablespoonful of the mixture on a cookie sheet for each cookie.
  5. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes or until lightly brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. If you're out of eggs, a flaxseed meal or applesauce can serve as a substitute. Make sure to properly cream the butter and sugar for a light texture. If you prefer, you can add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor, making these cookies even more delightful.

Serving Suggestions

These tea cakes are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat during gatherings. They pair beautifully with Donna Louise'S Slaw for a delightful contrast. Serve them alongside a cup of your favorite tea or coffee, or enjoy them with Sliced Apples And Dip for a refreshing complement to the sweetness.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, which will refresh their texture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandmother'S Old-Fashioned Tea Cakes contains roughly 136 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

136 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 0.8g 1% DV
Carbs 22.2g 8% DV
Fiber 1g 4% DV
Sugar 1.6g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 131.8mg 6% DV
Potassium 65mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 2.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 2.8mg 3% DV
Calcium 43.2mg 3% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 freeze the tea cakes for later?

Yes, these tea cakes freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

What can I use instead of plain flour?

If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture. Alternatively, you could try using almond flour for a different flavor profile, but this may affect the final texture.

How can I tell when the tea cakes are done baking?

The tea cakes are done when they are lightly golden brown on the edges and firm to the touch in the center. If you're unsure, you can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

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).

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