Tea Cake Cookies
Delicate tea cake cookies with a hint of vanilla, perfect for teatime or as a sweet treat. Soft, buttery, and easy to make, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl until well blended.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface.
- Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cookie, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. Ensure that the dough is chilled before rolling to prevent sticking. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. These cookies can also be flavored with citrus zest or almond extract for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful tea cake cookies with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with Mel's Pecan Pie for a sweet dessert spread. For a festive touch, consider decorating them with icing or sprinkles, making them perfect for parties or holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea Cake Cookies contains roughly 1255 calories, with 7g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. 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 shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening, which will give the cookies a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, and you might need to chill the dough longer to prevent spreading.
How thick should I roll the dough?
Roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick for a nice balance between crisp edges and a soft center. If you prefer a crunchier cookie, you can roll it thinner, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Can I add mix-ins to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the dough for added flavor and texture. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it may affect the dough consistency.
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).