Swedish Tea Cookies
Delightful Swedish Tea Cookies are buttery, nutty treats dusted with powdered sugar, perfect for tea time or festive gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy delicate, sweet confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter and remove from heat.
- Stir in 1/4 cup powdered sugar, water, and vanilla.
- Gradually blend in the flour to form a pastry-like dough.
- Add chopped pecans to the dough.
- Pinch off teaspoon-sized balls or crescent shapes from the dough.
- Place the dough pieces on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20 minutes.
- Carefully remove the cookies from the oven.
- Dust the cookies with powdered sugar and let cool.
- Dust again before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the butter is softened but not melted before mixing with powdered sugar. You can substitute chopped pecans with walnuts or almonds for different flavor profiles. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, increase the powdered sugar to 1/3 cup. The dough can be chilled for 30 minutes for easier shaping.
Serving Suggestions
These Swedish Tea Cookies are delightful with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Brazilian Custard (Pudim)(Dessert) or at holiday gatherings. They also pair well with fresh fruit or a selection of cheeses for a charming dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Tea Cookies contains roughly 123 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 6g 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist. Just chop them finely to ensure even distribution in the dough.
What if I don't have powdered sugar?
If you run out of powdered sugar, you can easily make your own by blending granulated sugar in a food processor until it becomes a fine powder. Use this homemade version in the same amount as the recipe calls for.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to help with the texture and binding of the cookies.
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).