As I watched flour dance through the air, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. Old Fashioned Tea Cakes have a way of transporting me back to family gatherings where each bite was met with laughter and stories. These soft sugar cookies, reminiscent of a delicate vanilla pound cake, are quick to whip up and endlessly customizable—perfect for a cozy afternoon or a festive celebration. Their tender texture melts in your mouth, making them not only a delightful treat but also a versatile companion for coffee, tea, or even a scoop of ice cream. Are you ready to create some sweet memories? Let’s dive into this classic recipe for Old Fashioned Tea Cakes!
Why Are Old Fashioned Tea Cakes Loved?
Nostalgic Flavor: Old Fashioned Tea Cakes evoke cherished memories with their soft, sweet bite reminiscent of family gatherings.
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delectable treats in no time. Perfect for those busy days when a sugar craving strikes!
Customizable Delight: The recipe is versatile; enhance the flavor with citrus zest or chocolate chips to suit your taste.
Perfect Pairing: Serve them alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea, making them an excellent addition to brunch or tea time.
All-Around Crowd Pleaser: Whether at a birthday party or a casual afternoon snack, these tea cakes are sure to be a hit. For more delightful cookie ideas, check out Cracked Garlic Steak for a flavorful twist!
Old Fashioned Tea Cakes Ingredients
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness; the granulated variety is best for cookie structure.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder; use an egg replacer for a vegan choice.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla or vanilla bean paste for intensity.
- Almond Extract – Contributes a nutty twist; omit for almond-free tea cakes or adjust to taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – The foundational structure ingredient; no gluten-free alternative suggested.
- Baking Soda – Provides leavening; can replace with baking powder, adjusting the quantity accordingly.
- Fine Sea Salt – Balances sweetness; no substitutions recommended.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth; substitute with pumpkin spice for a festive feel.
- Ground Cinnamon – Offers additional warmth; feel free to reduce or omit based on preference.
Optional Add-Ins
- Citrus Zest (Lemon or Orange) – Enhances freshness and vibrancy; perfect for a zesty kick.
- Chocolate Chips – Adds richness and sweetness for a delightful twist to the classic recipe.
Embrace the bliss of these Old Fashioned Tea Cakes as they fill your kitchen with warmth and sweetness—ready for your next gathering or cozy moment!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Tea Cakes
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy, showing a pale color. This process incorporates air, giving your Old Fashioned Tea Cakes a tender crumb.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Extracts
Next, add 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the buttery mixture. Beat on low speed until everything is well combined and smooth. This step introduces moisture and enhances the sweetness, contributing to the delightful flavor profile of the tea cakes.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 2½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Step 4: Chill Dough
Once combined, gather the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and flatten it into a disc. Refrigerate the dough for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling is vital as it allows the flavors to meld and firm up the dough for easier handling later on.
Step 5: Preheat Oven
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking, creating a perfect base for your Old Fashioned Tea Cakes.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
After chilling, remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter, cut the dough into 2½ inch rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough and flatten it slightly with a glass for a rustic look.
Step 7: Bake
Carefully transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly browned around the edges while remaining soft in the center. These visual cues indicate they’re perfectly baked and ready for cooling.
Step 8: Cool
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This cooling time is crucial, as it allows them to set before transferring. Using a spatula, gently move the Old Fashioned Tea Cakes to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their soft texture.
Old Fashioned Tea Cakes Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own twist on these delightful tea cakes and make them truly your own!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free treat without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegan Delight: Use an egg replacer instead of eggs, and enjoy these soft cookies in a plant-based version.
- Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing twist that brightens each bite. This little change adds a vibrant note that’s perfect for springtime gatherings.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips for a heartier cookie experience. Their melty goodness pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the tea cakes.
- Nutty Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, add chopped walnuts or pecans. They provide a delightful crunch and pair well with the sweet cookies.
- Pumpkin Spice: Swap the nutmeg and cinnamon with a pumpkin spice blend for a cozy fall-inspired twist. The seasonal flavors will have you dreaming of autumn days!
- Almond-Free: Omit almond extract altogether or substitute with vanilla or coconut extract for those with nut allergies. Adjusting flavors opens a world of possibilities!
- Chai Spice: Add a teaspoon of chai spice mix for a warmly spiced profile, ideal for serving with tea.
Explore these variations, and don’t forget you can serve your Old Fashioned Tea Cakes alongside a rich ice cream or a cup of coffee for the perfect treat! If you’re looking for more delicious meal ideas, check out Mediterranean Steak Bowl for a savory addition to your culinary adventures.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Tea Cakes?
There’s something magical about crafting a cozy gathering around these delicate cookies, as their sweet aroma fills the room.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes creates a lovely contrast to the light sweetness of the tea cakes, making them perfect for a heartwarming meal.
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Fresh Berries Salad: A vibrant salad with strawberries and blueberries adds a delightful freshness that cuts through the sweetness and enhances the overall dining experience.
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Whipped Cream: Serving Old Fashioned Tea Cakes with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream elevates them to dessert status; it’s a match made in culinary heaven.
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Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea provides a cooling contrast to the cookies’ warmth, making it a delightful pairing for any afternoon gathering.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes indulgence to the next level, combining soft textures and sweet flavors.
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Herbal Tea: The soothing fragrance of herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint complements the soft, sweet nature of the tea cakes, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling a bit of rich chocolate ganache over the cookies adds an irresistible layer of flavor. The sweetness pairs well, creating a sumptuous treat.
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Honey Lemonade: A glass of honey lemonade brings a sweet and tart flavor profile that balances beautifully with the tea cakes’ mild sweetness, refreshing any afternoon.
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Peanut Butter Cookies: For a delightful cookie platter, add peanut butter cookies alongside Old Fashioned Tea Cakes. The contrasting flavors and textures create an inviting spread.
Embrace the joy of sharing and savoring with these pairings, each enhancing the delightful experience of enjoying your Old Fashioned Tea Cakes!
Make Ahead Options
These Old Fashioned Tea Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Additionally, you can shape the cookies and freeze them raw for up to 3 months—simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, soft tea cakes right when the craving strikes, with minimal effort on your busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Tea Cakes
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps the cookies soft and delicious for snacking throughout the week.
Fridge: For extra freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just be sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies in individual bags for up to 3 months. Lay them flat until frozen, then stack to save space. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Reheating: To revive frozen Old Fashioned Tea Cakes, simply pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes. This refreshes their soft texture and brings back that sweet aroma.
Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Tea Cakes
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is soft at room temperature for effortless creaming with sugar, leading to light and fluffy cookies.
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Mixing Technique: Overmixing can toughen the old fashioned tea cakes. Mix until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
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Chill Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It not only helps the flavors develop but also makes the dough easier to handle without losing shape.
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Parchment Paper Essentials: Use parchment paper on your baking sheets to prevent sticking and encourage even baking for a perfect golden finish.
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Storage Tip: Keep your cookies soft by storing them with a slice of bread in an airtight container; it helps retain the moisture longer.
Old Fashioned Tea Cakes Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for Old Fashioned Tea Cakes?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for the best flavor and moisture. If you’re going dairy-free, margarine works well as a substitute. Just ensure it’s softened at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
How should I store Old Fashioned Tea Cakes?
I recommend storing your tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For even better freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week, but make sure they’re sealed properly to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Tea Cakes?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! To freeze, place the cookies in individual bags, laying them flat until frozen. You can stack them to save space. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven to refresh their soft texture.
What if my dough is too sticky?
No problem! If your dough feels excessively sticky, it’s likely due to warm butter or too much moisture. Chill the dough for a bit longer—at least 30 minutes should help it firm up. You can also sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface when rolling it out to make handling easier.
Are Old Fashioned Tea Cakes suitable for pets?
While the ingredients used in Old Fashioned Tea Cakes are not toxic to pets, they are not recommended as treats for dogs or cats. The sugar, flour, and eggs can upset their stomachs, so it’s best to keep these delicious cookies solely for human enjoyment!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Unfortunately, this recipe specifically calls for all-purpose flour, and there’s no gluten-free alternative mentioned. However, if you’d like to experiment, I suggest using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking. Adjust the liquid content as needed, since gluten-free flours can absorb moisture differently.
Old Fashioned Tea Cakes: Soft, Sweet Bliss for Any Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and extracts to the mixture and beat on low speed until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the dry ingredients and gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
- Gather the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the chilled dough to ¼ inch thickness, then cut into rounds and place on the sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly browned around the edges.
- Let cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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