Tea Cakes(Sugar Cookies)
Sweet and tender sugar cookies with a hint of nutmeg, perfect for teatime or special occasions. These buttery treats are easy to make and delight both kids and adults. Their crisp edges and soft centers make them a versatile choice for decorating or enjoying plain with a cup of tea or milk.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the margarine and sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add eggs and beat until the mixture is fluffy.
- Mix dry ingredients (baking powder, salt, nutmeg, flour) together and add alternately with milk to the creamed mixture, stirring until well combined.
- If the dough is sticky, add additional flour until manageable.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
- Place the cutouts on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350° to 375°F for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before decorating or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your margarine is softened at room temperature before creaming with sugar, as this contributes to a light texture. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting nutmeg with cinnamon or vanilla extract. Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as oven temperatures can vary, and they can quickly go from golden to overdone.
Serving Suggestions
These tea cakes are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a light glaze or icing for added sweetness. Serve them with a side of fresh fruit or alongside your favorite tea to create a charming afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with *Scrumpdiliicious Ice Cream*, making for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; place layers of parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea Cakes(Sugar Cookies) contains roughly 253 calories, with 4g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 536mg per serving (23% 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 use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can substitute butter for margarine in this recipe. It will give the cookies a richer flavor and slightly different texture. Just ensure that the butter is softened before creaming with sugar for the best results.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels overly sticky, gradually add small amounts of flour until the dough is manageable. Be careful not to add too much flour at once, as this can make the cookies tough.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the dough before rolling it out. This can add extra flavor and texture to your tea cakes.
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).