Nanny Harris' Tea Cakes
Nanny Harris' Tea Cakes are buttery, tender cookies with a hint of lemon and vanilla, perfect for teatime or any special occasion. They are a nostalgic treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, cream together the sugar, shortening, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add sifted flour, kneading until the mixture is stiff enough to roll out.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
- Place the cutouts on greased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar. If you're looking for a lighter option, replace the solid vegetable shortening with unsweetened applesauce or a plant-based butter. To enhance the citrus notes, you can add a teaspoon of grated lemon zest. Ensure that the dough is not over-kneaded to keep the tea cakes tender and flaky.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful tea cakes are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet snack. Pair them with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a comforting treat. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Candied Apples On A Stick or a fruit platter. They also make a charming addition to dessert trays during gatherings or celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nanny Harris' Tea Cakes contains roughly 1217 calories, with 28g protein, 226g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (67% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 9g 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 flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free option. However, be aware that the texture may differ slightly, so you might need to adjust the amount of flour used to achieve the right consistency.
How can I make these tea cakes more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your tea cakes, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added texture and taste, creating a unique twist on the classic recipe.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough becomes too sticky, try adding a little more sifted flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. Make sure to roll it out on a well-floured surface to prevent it from sticking during shaping.
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).