Anne’s Teacakes (Tea Cakes)

🫖🍰 Sure, I’d be delighted to tell you all about Anne’s Teacakes (Tea Cakes)! 🫖🍰

What are Anne’s Teacakes (Tea Cakes)?
Anne’s Teacakes, commonly known as Tea Cakes, are sweet, delicate, and often round or oval-shaped cookies or small cakes. They’re known for their tender crumb and slightly crisp exterior, making them a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. These treats have a rich history and are beloved in many cultures.

History of Tea Cakes 📜
Tea cakes have a long and diverse history. They’re believed to have originated in England during the 17th century. Initially, they were more like small, plain bread rolls served with tea. However, over time, their recipe evolved to become the sweet, cookie-like treats we know today.

Tea cakes became popular in the American South, where they are often associated with African American and Southern cuisine. They were traditionally served at gatherings, especially during the times of slavery, and have since become a cherished part of Southern culinary heritage.

Components of Tea Cakes 🧁🍪
The basic components of Tea Cakes typically include:

1. Flour: All-purpose flour is used as the main dry ingredient.
2. Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the cakes.
3. Butter: Unsalted butter provides richness and flavor.
4. Egg: Eggs help bind the dough together.
5. Baking Powder: This leavening agent gives the tea cakes a slight rise.
6. Milk: Milk is added to achieve the desired dough consistency.
7. Vanilla Extract: For a hint of flavor.
8. Salt: To enhance the overall taste.

Steps to Prepare Anne’s Teacakes 🍰👩‍🍳

Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Baking Time: Around 10-12 minutes
Yield: 2-3 dozen tea cakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

• Beat in 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with 1/4 cup of milk until the dough comes together.

Step 6: Shape the Tea Cakes

• Roll the dough into small balls or use a cookie cutter to create round shapes.

Step 7: Bake

• Place the tea cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

• Allow the tea cakes to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar if desired and serve with your favorite tea or coffee.

Time Needed to Prepare ⏲️
The entire process, from preparation to baking and cooling, usually takes around 45-50 minutes. This time may vary slightly depending on your baking experience and equipment.

So, there you have it! The delicious history, components, preparation steps, and approximate time needed to make Anne’s Teacakes (Tea Cakes). Enjoy your baking adventure! 🫖🍪🍰😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Anne’s Teacakes (Tea Cakes):

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: Tea cakes typically contain around 80-120 calories per serving, depending on size and ingredients.

• Total Fat: Tea cakes are moderately high in fat, primarily due to the butter used in the recipe. A serving may contain around 4-7 grams of total fat.

• Saturated Fat: Tea cakes are also relatively high in saturated fat, with around 2-4 grams per serving.

• Cholesterol: Due to the use of butter and eggs, tea cakes may have 15-30 milligrams of cholesterol per serving.

• Carbohydrates: Tea cakes are a source of carbohydrates, with about 10-15 grams per serving.

• Sugar: A serving of tea cakes typically contains 5-10 grams of sugar.

• Protein: Tea cakes are not a significant source of protein, with around 1-2 grams per serving.

• Fiber: They generally have minimal dietary fiber.

Health Information:

• Moderation: Like many sweet treats, tea cakes should be enjoyed in moderation due to their sugar and saturated fat content.

• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie intake.

• Ingredient Choices: You can make healthier versions of tea cakes by using alternatives like whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, or using healthier fats.

• Enjoyment: Tea cakes can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed as an occasional indulgence.

Remember that the nutritional content can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. If you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance on incorporating tea cakes into your diet.