Tea Cakes, Old Fashioned
Old-fashioned tea cakes with rich butter flavor and tender crumb, perfect for teatime or special occasions, appealing to those who enjoy classic baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine, eggs, and sugar together.
- Add vanilla and buttermilk to the mixture.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and chill for 3 to 4 hours.
- Roll out the dough enough to fill the cookie sheet.
- Bake at 400°F until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure the dough is well-chilled to make rolling easier and to achieve a better texture. If you prefer a hint of spice, adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These old-fashioned tea cakes are delightful when served with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, try pairing them with whipped cream and fresh berries, or serve alongside a slice of Pumpkin Pie(Custard) for a comforting dessert spread. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. For reheating, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, just until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea Cakes, Old Fashioned contains roughly 2779 calories, with 7g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 248g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2799mg per serving (122% of the Daily Value).
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 freeze the tea cakes?
Yes, these tea cakes freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough becomes too sticky, you can add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the texture of the final product. Chill the dough again if necessary to make rolling easier.
Can I add flavorings or mix-ins to the dough?
Absolutely! You can customize these tea cakes by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts to the dough. For a more aromatic touch, consider incorporating almond extract or citrus zest. Just ensure that the additions don't overwhelm the base flavor of the cake.
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).