Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a timeless treat that combines a soft, buttery texture with a touch of sweetness, making them perfect for tea time or as a delightful snack. These simple, classic cookies are lightly flavored with vanilla, allowing their buttery richness to shine.
Whether you’re serving them with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or milk, these cookies are a comforting reminder of Southern hospitality and home baking traditions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these cookies are easy to whip up any time.
• Soft and Buttery: Their tender texture and rich flavor make them a favorite for all ages.
• Versatile: Perfect for snacks, tea parties, or a sweet addition to any gathering.
Ingredients
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
1. In the bowl of your mixer, add the butter and sugar.
2. Mix on high speed for 4–5 minutes, or until the mixture is fluffy and smooth.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
1. Reduce the mixer speed to medium and add the egg and vanilla extract.
2. Beat until the egg is fully incorporated into the mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
1. Turn the mixer to low speed and gradually add the flour mixture in three intervals.
2. Mix after each addition until the flour is just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
1. Remove the dough from the mixer and transfer it to a Ziploc bag.
2. Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
1. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls.
2. Gently press the center of each dough ball with your thumb to slightly flatten it.
3. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 1 ½ inches between each.
Step 8: Bake
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5–10 minutes.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
1. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely or serve warm.
Tips
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and egg are at room temperature for a smooth, even dough.
• Chill for Best Results: Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Add a Twist: Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for a decorative touch.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.
Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a nostalgic treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Soft, buttery, and wonderfully simple, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite!
