Granny Stephens Tea Cakes
Granny Stephens Tea Cakes are soft, sweet cookies with vanilla flavor, perfect for teatime or sharing with family and friends, offering nostalgic comfort and delightful simplicity.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix salt, sugar, flour, soda, and baking powder together.
- Add buttermilk, vanilla, and softened butter to the mixture.
- Beat the eggs separately.
- Combine the beaten eggs into the mixture.
- Put the mixture into the freezer until the oven is ready and the cookie sheet is greased.
- Roll the chilled dough into small balls and pat them flat.
- Bake at 350°F until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For added flavor, consider incorporating a hint of almond extract alongside the vanilla. Chilling the dough is crucial for shape retention during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light yogurt dip. For a special occasion, consider serving them alongside Escalloped Carrots(Freda Adams - Bethel, Ohio) for a balanced meal. They can also be dressed up with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer them chilled, place them in the refrigerator, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months; thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny Stephens Tea Cakes contains roughly 96 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% 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?
While plain flour is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, so adjust the liquid accordingly to maintain the right consistency.
How do I know when the tea cakes are done baking?
The tea cakes are done when they turn a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as baking time can vary slightly based on your oven and the size of the cookies.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to customize the flavor. Just be cautious not to add too many, as it may affect the dough's consistency and baking time.
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).