Me Ma'S Tea Cakes
Delicious tea cakes with a tender, flaky texture, perfect for snacking or teatime, featuring subtle vanilla and optional cinnamon sweetness that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut shortening into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add eggs, milk, and vanilla; knead into a smooth dough.
- Roll out dough to very thin thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes, optionally sprinkle with sugar or cinnamon-sugar.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a richer flavor, try using butter instead of shortening or lard. Make sure to sift the flour thoroughly to avoid lumps in your dough. For a festive touch, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or almond extract to the dough. This recipe is versatile and can also be shaped into holiday cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful on their own or can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a more indulgent experience, pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. They also complement well with a fresh fruit salad, like Lime Bavarian Salad, for a refreshing contrast. Enjoy them as a light dessert or a sweet snack throughout the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place layers of parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking, and store in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Me Ma'S Tea Cakes contains roughly 199 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 20g fat.
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. For best results, consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to maintain the desired lightness of the tea cakes.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour while kneading until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as it can make the tea cakes tough. Alternatively, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
How can I make these tea cakes more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your tea cakes, consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the dough. Additionally, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the taste. Experiment with adding chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.
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).