There is something incredibly nostalgic and heartwarming about a batch of freshly baked Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe that simply transports you straight to a sunny afternoon porch swing or a cozy kitchen filled with laughter. These delicate, buttery cookies boast a lightly crisp edge with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center, all wrapped up with the subtle warmth of vanilla. Every bite is a perfect harmony of simple, timeless flavors that have made Southern Tea Cake Cookies a cherished classic for generations. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is delightfully uncomplicated yet utterly satisfying, promising to become a favorite in your cookie collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these humble ingredients is the first step to creating those magical Southern Tea Cake Cookies that everyone will adore. Each element plays a starring role—from the richness of butter to the soft texture the flour provides, and the sweet, fragrant kiss of vanilla.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base for your cookies, providing structure and tenderness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise gently to the perfect texture.
- 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds rich flavor and a velvety texture.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: The classic sweetness that perfectly balances the buttery dough.
- 1 large egg (room temperature): Binds the ingredients and adds moisture for softness.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: The fragrant heart of the Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe, offering a warm, inviting aroma.
How to Make Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda in a medium bowl. This simple step ensures that the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed, helping your cookies to bake evenly with that lovely light texture.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer or handheld beater, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar on high speed until light and fluffy, about 4 to 5 minutes. This aeration step is crucial as it creates a tender crumb and a slightly chewy bite.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Lower the mixer speed to medium and incorporate the egg along with the vanilla extract. Mixing these in gradually ensures a uniform blend that adds richness and the unmistakable comforting scent that defines our Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe.
Step 4: Combine with Dry Ingredients
Reduce the speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, mixing well after each addition. This prevents overmixing, which can make cookies tough, while ensuring that everything is perfectly combined for that delicate texture.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
For the best results, transfer the cookie dough to a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate it for at least one hour. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. This temperature is gentle, allowing the cookies to bake evenly without burning the edges.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out dough using a tablespoon, then roll each portion into a ball. Place them on your prepared sheet, gently pressing the center to create a slight flattening. This step helps the cookies bake uniformly and develop their signature shape.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown. The centers will remain delightfully soft — just what you want to capture the essence of these Southern Tea Cake Cookies.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, helping them firm up appropriately while preserving their delicate texture inside.
How to Serve Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies shine all on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch of sweetness and a nostalgic look, perfect for serving at afternoon tea. For an extra special treat, try a thin spread of fruit preserves or a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Southern Tea Cake Cookies with classic accompaniments like a hot cup of black tea or a creamy iced latte. A fresh fruit salad or a side of lemon curd can beautifully balance the cookie’s buttery richness and elevate your entire tea time experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or gift-giving, stack the cookies neatly in a decorative tin or wrap them in cellophane tied with a rustic ribbon for a charming Southern-inspired presentation. You can also serve them alongside whipped cream and fresh berries for a fresh, vibrant dessert platter that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Southern Tea Cake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh and tender for up to one week. Placing a slice of bread inside the container helps maintain moisture and prevents the cookies from becoming hard.
Freezing
If you’d like to enjoy these delightful treats later, freeze the unbaked dough balls on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. For baked cookies, wrap them tightly and freeze in a similar manner. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To refresh stored cookies, warm them briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F (149°C) for about 5 minutes. This will recapture their freshly baked softness and bring out their beautiful buttery aroma, making each bite taste as good as the first time.
FAQs
Can I substitute butter with margarine in the Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe?
While margarine can be used in a pinch, it may alter the texture and flavor slightly. Butter’s richness and ability to cream properly are key to achieving the tender crumb and buttery taste characteristic of these cookies.
Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and develop a better texture by solidifying the fat. This step prevents excessive spreading during baking and strengthens the flavor balance.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding chopped pecans or white chocolate chips can add delightful contrast and variety, but keep additions moderate so they don’t overpower the classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for golden edges with centers that still look soft. Overbaking can dry them out, so it’s best to err on the side of a slightly underbaked center, which will continue to set as the cookies cool.
Can this recipe be doubled for larger batches?
Yes, the recipe scales nicely for larger batches. Just be sure to mix ingredients thoroughly and keep dough chilled properly to ensure even baking and consistent texture.
Final Thoughts
The Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe is a timeless kitchen treasure that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of Southern hospitality to every occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a deliciously tender cookie that feels like a hug from the South itself. I can’t wait for you to bake these and share the joy — it’s a recipe that never disappoints!
Print
Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Southern Tea Cake Cookies are classic, soft, and buttery treats with a delicate vanilla flavor. These tender cookies have a tender crumb and slightly crisp edges, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. The recipe involves simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them an ideal homemade treat to share or enjoy any time.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
Wet Ingredients
- 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda until thoroughly combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on high speed for about 4-5 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and smooth. This step is crucial for a light texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Reduce the mixer speed to medium, then add the large egg and pure vanilla extract. Beat until these ingredients are well combined and the mixture looks creamy.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Lower the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the flour mixture in three intervals, mixing well after each addition until a soft dough forms.
- Chill Dough: Transfer the dough into a Ziploc bag and refrigerate it for at least one hour. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to scoop and helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Shape Cookies: Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of dough. Roll each portion into a ball and then gently press the center to slightly flatten it. Place the shaped dough balls evenly spaced on the prepared cookie sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn a golden brown, signaling they are done.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes to set. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- For best results, ensure butter and egg are at room temperature before starting.
- The dough needs to be chilled to prevent spreading and to develop the cookies’ characteristic texture.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to avoid sticking and easy cleanup.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These cookies freeze well; freeze baked cookies or dough balls separately and thaw before baking or serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
