Old Fashioned Tea Cakes

There’s something truly enchanting about the aroma of baking that fills the home with warmth and comfort. Imagine a cozy kitchen, where the sweet scent of vanilla and sugar wafts through the air, captivating loved ones and beckoning them to gather around the table. Old Fashioned Tea Cakes are a perfect embodiment of this comforting sensation—soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, they melt in your mouth and are best enjoyed with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. These delightful treats evoke nostalgia, making them a perfect treat for both quiet mornings and lively family gatherings.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 tea cakes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information per Serving:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 7g

(Nutrition information is based on calculations from the USDA FoodData Central and may vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.)

Why Make This Recipe

Old Fashioned Tea Cakes are not only delectable but incredibly easy to whip up. Their tender crumb and delightful sweetness make them the perfect companion for cozy moments—whether it’s a laid-back weekend breakfast, a gathering of friends, or even a casual afternoon snack. These treats are also versatile enough to be customized to your taste! Baking them will fill your home with nostalgic scents and create delightful memories, one tea cake at a time.

How to Make Old Fashioned Tea Cakes

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt

Optional Ingredients:

1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
1 tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor
1 cup chocolate chips or dried fruits for a twist

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy—this will add airiness to your cakes!
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure incorporation.
Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined for a rich flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined—take care not to overmix, as this can create tough cakes.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each dollop to allow for spreading.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. To check for doneness, use a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Once out of the oven, allow the cakes to cool on a wire rack.

How to Serve

These delightful tea cakes can be served plain, showcasing their tender crumb and subtle sweetness. For an elevated touch, spread a bit of softened butter or serve them alongside a selection of jams and preserves. They pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or even a glass of cold milk!

How to Store

To keep your tea cakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to save them for later, you can freeze the tea cakes for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer-safe container.

Expert Tips

Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy blending into the batter, resulting in a uniformly light texture.
Use parchment paper for easy removal of the cakes after baking—this helps in preserving their shape and prevents sticking.
If using nuts, consider toasting them slightly before folding into the dough for enhanced flavor.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to experiment with your tea cakes by adding your favorite flavors or textures. Try a vegan version using mashed bananas and almond milk, or get creative with a cinnamon swirl by incorporating a mix of cinnamon and sugar in the center of the dough. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour; however, the texture may vary slightly.
Why are my tea cakes too dense?
Overmixing the batter can lead to dense results. Remember to mix until just combined for a fluffy cake.
Can I freeze the batter?
While it’s best to bake the cakes before freezing, you can freeze the prepared dough for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
What’s the best way to reheat tea cakes?
For a warm treat, heat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in an oven at low heat for a few minutes.
How do I know if my tea cakes are done?
Look for lightly golden edges and do the toothpick test; it should come out clean from the center.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Tea Cakes offer a beautiful fusion of simplicity and nostalgia, perfect for intimate gatherings or personal indulgence. We invite you to try this recipe and embrace the aroma of fresh baking in your home. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore the delightful variations, we’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you added along the way! Happy baking!