Maw Maw'S Tea Cakes
Maw Maw's Tea Cakes are sweet, buttery cookies with a hint of vanilla, perfect for family gatherings or teatime treats enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, shortening, and eggs and cream well.
- Gradually add flour and baking powder and mix thoroughly.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out on a floured surface and cut into desired shapes.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes on an ungreased baking sheet.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. If you prefer a healthier option, swap half of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Make sure to chill the dough well; this helps maintain the shape of the cookies during baking. You can also experiment by adding spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon for added warmth.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light glaze. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or can be enjoyed as part of a dessert platter featuring other treats like Special Cookies or Butterscotch Pudding Walnut Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply place them in a 300°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until warm. This helps retain their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maw Maw'S Tea Cakes contains roughly 2439 calories, with 3g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 241g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% 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 freeze the dough for Maw Maw's Tea Cakes?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before freezing. It will last for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with rolling and cutting the shapes.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky to roll out?
If the dough is sticky, try adding a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Alternatively, you can chill the dough longer, as cold dough is easier to handle. Dust your work surface with flour to help prevent sticking while rolling out the dough.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the tea cakes?
Absolutely! You can customize these tea cakes by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough. For additional flavor, consider incorporating citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, which can brighten up the sweetness. Just be mindful of the added ingredients' moisture content to maintain the dough's 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).