๐ซ Aunt Neal’s Old Fashioned Tea Cakes ๐ช
Aunt Neal’s Old Fashioned Tea Cakes are delightful and timeless treats with a rich history. They are soft, slightly sweet cookies that pair perfectly with a hot cup of tea, as the name suggests. Here’s a detailed response with lots of information and, of course, some emojis to add flavor to your query:
History: ๐
Aunt Neal’s Old Fashioned Tea Cakes have a rich history deeply rooted in Southern cuisine, particularly in the United States. These cookies have been enjoyed for generations, passed down from one family member to the next. They were traditionally baked in Southern homes as a simple yet comforting treat. Each family often had its own cherished recipe, with variations in ingredients and preparation methods.
Components: ๐ง
The components of Aunt Neal’s Old Fashioned Tea Cakes typically include:
- All-purpose flour
- Sugar
- Butter
- Eggs
- Baking powder
- Vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Steps to Prepare: ๐ฝ๏ธ
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This is often done using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
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Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to handle.
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Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to shape the tea cakes into desired shapes.
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Bake: Place the tea cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are just starting to turn golden at the edges.
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Cool and Serve: Let the tea cakes cool on a wire rack. Once they’re at room temperature, you can enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee. They’re perfect for dipping!
Preparation Time: โฐ
The total time needed to prepare Aunt Neal’s Old Fashioned Tea Cakes varies, but it’s typically around 2 to 3 hours, including the chilling and baking time. The hands-on time, excluding chilling and baking, is approximately 30-40 minutes.
These tea cakes are a delicious taste of nostalgia, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy baking and savoring these classic treats! ๐ช๐ซ
Certainly, here’s some nutrition information and health considerations for Aunt Neal’s Old Fashioned Tea Cakes:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Serving size may vary):
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Calories: The calorie count can range from 100 to 150 calories per tea cake, depending on the size and ingredients used.
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Carbohydrates: Tea cakes are carbohydrate-rich due to flour and sugar. Each tea cake may contain around 15-20 grams of carbohydrates.
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Fat: These cookies contain a moderate amount of fat, primarily from butter. Each tea cake may have around 5-8 grams of fat.
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Protein: Tea cakes are not a significant source of protein and typically contain around 1-2 grams of protein per serving.
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Sugar: Due to their sweet nature, tea cakes can have a fair amount of sugar. Each serving might have 6-10 grams or more of sugar.
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Fiber: Tea cakes are generally low in fiber, with less than 1 gram per serving.
Health Information:
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Portion Control: Due to their sweet and calorie-dense nature, it’s essential to consume tea cakes in moderation. Overindulging in such treats can contribute to weight gain and issues related to excessive sugar intake.
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Sugar Content: The sugar content in tea cakes can be a concern for those looking to manage their sugar intake. It’s advisable to be mindful of your overall sugar consumption, especially if you have dietary restrictions or health conditions like diabetes.
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Nutrient Balance: While tea cakes provide some carbohydrates and fats, they lack essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. They are best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.
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Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Homemade tea cakes may offer more control over the ingredients and their quality, potentially making them a slightly healthier option compared to heavily processed store-bought alternatives. You can also experiment with healthier ingredient substitutions, such as whole wheat flour or reducing sugar.
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Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Be cautious if you have allergies or dietary restrictions. Tea cakes may contain common allergens like wheat, eggs, and dairy. Always check the ingredients and consider alternative recipes if needed.
Remember that the health impact of these tea cakes can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. If you have specific health concerns or dietary requirements, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance. Enjoy these delightful treats in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. ๐ช๐ซ
