Sand Tarts (Ladyfingers)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min

Delicate sand tarts with a buttery, nutty flavor and a dusting of powdered sugar, perfect for tea time or holiday treats, appealing to those who enjoy simple, elegant cookies.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 1 cup finely chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Cream butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
  2. Add 1 cup of flour with mixer, mixing well.
  3. Add remaining flour, mixing with hand.
  4. Add chopped nuts.
  5. Roll dough into finger shapes, crescents, or balls.
  6. Be careful not to roll ends too thin.
  7. Bake in a 300°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on size.
  8. Do not brown these cookies.
  9. When bottoms and edges start to brown, they are done.
  10. Allow to cool, then roll in powdered sugar.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the powdered sugar. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute finely chopped oats or additional flour. Experiment with flavored extracts like almond to add a unique twist. Rolling the dough into different shapes adds visual appeal, but keep the thickness consistent to ensure even baking.

Serving Suggestions

Sand tarts are delightful when dusted with powdered sugar right before serving, enhancing their visual appeal. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon treat. These cookies can also be enjoyed alongside Egg Nog(This Is A Good Holiday Drink.) during festive gatherings, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.

Storage & Reheating

Store the cooled sand tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sand Tarts (Ladyfingers) contains roughly 1586 calories, with 11g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 105g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.

1586 kcal 79% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.4g 23% DV
Total Fat 105.3g 100% DV
Carbs 120.5g 44% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 36.9g 74% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 6mg
Potassium 1158.7mg 25% DV
Cholesterol 180mg 60% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.5mcg 1% DV
Calcium 71.6mg 6% DV
Iron 2mg 11% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 different types of nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for finely chopped nuts, feel free to use your favorite variety, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds. Each type will lend a unique flavor and texture to the cookies. Just ensure they are chopped finely for even distribution in the dough.

Why is it important not to brown the cookies?

Sand tarts are meant to have a delicate, light texture and a pale color. Browning can lead to a harder cookie that lacks the intended melt-in-your-mouth quality. Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should be removed as soon as the bottoms and edges start to turn golden.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used as a substitute, it may alter the flavor and texture of the sand tarts. Butter provides richness and moisture, making the cookies tender. If you choose to use margarine, opt for a stick variety for the best results and ensure it is softened before combining with the sugar.

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).

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