Holland Tea Cakes

Holland Tea Cakes Recipe from Netherlands - Sugar, Butter, Eggs, Flour, Cinnamon

Region / culture: Netherlands | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Holland Tea Cakes are a delightful treat that originated in the Netherlands. These sweet and buttery cakes are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your friends and family.

History

Holland Tea Cakes have been a popular treat in the Netherlands for centuries. They are often served during special occasions such as holidays and celebrations. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the classic recipe.

Ingredients

1 cup (240 g) of sugar
1 stick of butter (preferably melted)
2 eggs (separated)
2 cups (280 g) of flour
1 – 2 tsp of cinnamon (more or less to taste)
Colored sugar or nuts for topping

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the butter and sugar until fully mixed. Add the egg yolk and continue mixing. Gradually add the flour and cinnamon, mixing thoroughly by hand or using a mixer if desired.
Pour the batter into a cookie pan, spreading it evenly using the palm of your hand. Brush the leftover egg white over the batter. Add your desired toppings, spreading them evenly across the batter.
Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake until the cookies turn golden brown, approximately 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. While still warm, cut the cookies into small squares, measuring about 1 inch by 1 inch (2.5 cm x 2.5 cm).

Variations

Add dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries to the batter for added sweetness.
Sprinkle some powdered sugar on top of the cakes before serving for a decorative touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use melted butter for a smoother batter.

- Be sure to spread the batter evenly in the cookie pan for uniform baking.

- Brushing the leftover egg white over the batter helps to create a shiny and golden crust.

- Allow the cookies to cool slightly before cutting them into squares to prevent them from crumbling.

Serving Suggestions

Holland Tea Cakes are best enjoyed with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Mixing the batter by hand ensures a more rustic and homemade texture.

- Using a mixer can help to create a smoother and more uniform batter.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Holland Tea Cakes can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Holland Tea Cakes on a decorative platter with a sprig of fresh mint for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Holland Tea Cakes pair well with a variety of beverages such as tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the Holland Tea Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Holland Tea Cakes contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Holland Tea Cakes contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Holland Tea Cakes contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Holland Tea Cakes contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Holland Tea Cakes are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Holland Tea Cakes contain eggs and nuts.

Summary

Holland Tea Cakes are a delicious treat that is relatively low in calories and high in carbohydrates and fats. They are a great option for those looking for a sweet indulgence.

Summary

Holland Tea Cakes are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. With their buttery and sweet flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Holland Tea Cakes tucked away in an old cookbook that once belonged to my grandmother. As I carefully turned the delicate pages, each filled with handwritten notes and splatters of ingredients long forgotten, I couldn't help but wonder about the origins of this particular recipe.

Growing up in a small village in the countryside of Holland, my grandmother was known for her delicious baking. She would spend hours in the kitchen, kneading dough, mixing batters, and filling the house with the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods. It was from her that I learned the art of baking, and it was she who first introduced me to the recipe for Holland Tea Cakes.

I remember the first time she showed me how to make them. We gathered the ingredients - flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and a hint of almond extract - and began the process of mixing and shaping the dough. As we worked together, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood, of baking with her own mother and learning the secrets of their family recipes.

The tea cakes were a traditional Dutch treat, often served at special occasions and gatherings. They were simple yet elegant, with a delicate crumb and a subtle sweetness that made them perfect for pairing with a hot cup of tea. My grandmother explained that the recipe had been passed down through generations, with each cook adding their own unique touch to make it their own.

Over the years, I have made the Holland Tea Cakes countless times, each batch a tribute to the memories of my grandmother and the generations of bakers who came before her. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition and the love that goes into each bite.

As I sit here now, in my own kitchen, mixing together the familiar ingredients and shaping the dough into perfect little rounds, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the culinary heritage that has been passed down to me. The recipe for Holland Tea Cakes is more than just a list of instructions; it is a connection to my past, a link to the women who came before me and the traditions they held dear.

And as I place the tea cakes in the oven and watch as they rise and turn golden brown, I know that with each bite, I am not only savoring a delicious treat, but also honoring the legacy of those who taught me the joy of baking. The recipe for Holland Tea Cakes may have come from a forgotten corner of an old cookbook, but its roots run deep in my heart and in the traditions of my family. And for that, I am forever grateful.