Plain Tea Cakes
Soft, buttery tea cakes with a delicate sweetness and tender crumb, perfect for teatime or light desserts, appealing to those who enjoy simple, classic baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the sugar and Crisco together until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add 1 cup of flour, then vanilla, then the rest of the flour; mix well.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface.
- Roll out the dough thin.
- Cut into desired shapes and bake at 325°F for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the dough. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. Make sure to knead the dough just enough to combine the ingredients, as over-kneading can lead to tough cakes.
Serving Suggestions
These plain tea cakes are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee. They can be enjoyed plain or decorated with frosting or dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch. They also pair beautifully with a side of Atomic Salad for a light meal, making them versatile for various occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or briefly reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Tea Cakes contains roughly 1214 calories, with 27g protein, 242g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 8g 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 butter instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute butter for Crisco in this recipe. Just ensure it's softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar. This will add a richer flavor, but the texture may be slightly different compared to using Crisco.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, gradually add a little more self-rising flour until it reaches a workable consistency. Be cautious not to add too much flour, as this can make the tea cakes dense.
Can I make these tea cakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling out and baking. This can enhance the flavors as they rest. Just allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before rolling.
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).