Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe
Soft, buttery, and blessed with a whisper of nostalgia, Southern Tea Cake Cookies are the kind of classic treat that brings a smile with every bite. The tender crumb, hint of vanilla, and gentle golden edges make them a cozy companion for everything from tea parties to after-school snacks. With a recipe rooted in Southern tradition, these cookies are simple to make and absolutely irresistible—perfect for anyone craving a home-baked delight that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Southern Tea Cake Cookies lies in the way simple pantry staples blend together to create something truly special. Each ingredient serves its own purpose, adding to the cookie’s signature taste, soft texture, and beautiful pale-golden color.
- Unsalted butter: Brings a rich, creamy base that lends softness to every bite.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness, helping the cookies turn golden as they bake.
- Large eggs: Give structure and moisture, making the cookies fluffy and tender.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with comforting warmth and classic cookie flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the body and chewy texture essential to these tea cakes.
- Baking soda: Ensures just enough lift for a light, soft crumb without getting too puffy.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances every flavor note in the cookie.
- Ground nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle, traditional spice note for those who crave a touch more Southern charm.
How to Make Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheets and Oven
Before you dive into mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and helps your Southern Tea Cake Cookies bake up evenly with those lovely golden bottoms.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. This step is key for getting that tender, almost cake-like texture we adore in Southern Tea Cake Cookies. Give it at least 2-3 minutes so the sugar really blends into the butter.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack the eggs in one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures your dough stays smooth and evenly mixed. Stir in the vanilla extract, letting that familiar scent bloom—this is the heart of the cookies’ old-fashioned charm.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, salt, and the optional nutmeg. Mixing dry ingredients first guarantees even distribution of the leavening and spice, setting the stage for cookies that are balanced and flavorful throughout.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as you see no more dry flour. This gentle approach keeps Southern Tea Cake Cookies tender and melt-in-your-mouth.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Scoop the dough by rounded tablespoons and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie for spreading. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or your fingertips; this gives them their signature tea cake look.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, just until the edges are kissed with gold and the centers are set. They should look pale and soft in the center—don’t overbake if you want that classic, tender texture. Let them cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Garnishes
Keep things simple and elegant by dusting your Southern Tea Cake Cookies lightly with powdered sugar right before serving. If you want to give them a homemade touch, drizzle a quick vanilla glaze or sprinkle a hint more nutmeg over the top for an added pop of flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine alongside a fresh pot of tea (naturally), but they’re just as lovely with a cold glass of milk or hot coffee. For a Southern-inspired pairing, serve with fresh fruit or a berry compote—tangy-sweet flavors mingle perfectly with the delicate sweetness of Southern Tea Cake Cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a vintage cake stand or in a pretty basket lined with linen for a warm, inviting presentation. For parties or gatherings, layer the cookies with parchment in gift boxes, or serve them as part of an elegant dessert platter with mini lemon bars and chocolate-dipped strawberries. Let their simple charm shine or dress them up to suit any special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep Southern Tea Cake Cookies fresh and soft, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re at their best for up to a week, but you’ll likely find they disappear well before then!
Freezing
If you want to make tea cake joy last a little longer, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place completely cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then tuck into zip-top bags or containers for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature whenever you’re ready for a treat.
Reheating
For that fresh-baked feel, warm a Southern Tea Cake Cookie in the microwave for just 10–15 seconds. It brings back the buttery softness. You can also pop a batch in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes if you’re serving a crowd.
FAQs
Are Southern Tea Cake Cookies supposed to be soft or crisp?
They’re traditionally soft and tender, almost cake-like, with a light golden edge and pale, pillow-y center. If you prefer a crisper bite, simply bake them a minute or two longer.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Absolutely! While classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies keep things simple, you can add a little lemon zest, a dash of cinnamon, or even fold in mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
Is it necessary to chill the dough?
No need to chill this dough—these cookies are meant to be quick and easy. However, if your kitchen is very warm, a quick chill (15–20 minutes) can help the cookies hold their shape better as they bake.
Do I have to include nutmeg?
Not at all. Nutmeg is traditional and adds a warm, nostalgic flavor, but you can skip it for a simpler, pure vanilla cookie. Both styles are delicious!
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts. Just be sure to check that your blend contains xanthan gum for the closest match to classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to share. If you’ve never tried baking Southern Tea Cake Cookies before, treat yourself to a batch—they offer simple sweetness, a taste of Southern tradition, and plenty of heart in every morsel. Let them become your new comfort classic!
Print
Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee. These old-fashioned cookies are soft, slightly sweet, and easy to make.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg if using.
- Mix the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Bake: Scoop dough onto baking sheets, flatten slightly, and bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a softer cookie, avoid overbaking.
- Nutmeg adds a traditional flavor but can be omitted.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 75 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
