Name: Delicious Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (if needed)

When it comes to the delightful world of home-baked goodies, nothing quite compares to the comfort of Southern Tea Cake Cookies. These scrumptious cookies blend simple ingredients with a rich, buttery flavor that invokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Perfectly soft and slightly sweet, they are not only ideal for afternoon tea but also make a charming dessert for any occasion. With a recipe that is easy to follow, anyone can enjoy the pleasure of baking—and savoring—these delightful confections. The real charm of Southern Tea Cake Cookies lies in their versatility; whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a leisurely brunch, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies rise to the occasion.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of cookies that are sure to impress your family and friends. The inclusion of vanilla extract enhances the cookie’s flavor profile, making each bite an experience to savor. Not to mention, their melt-in-your-mouth texture creates an undeniably satisfying treat. If you’re on the lookout for a quick dessert or something sweet to pair with your morning coffee, these cookies check all the boxes. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, the Southern Tea Cake Cookie is a timeless classic that has earned its place in the hearts of many.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry items, allowing for spontaneous baking.
Budget-Friendly: An affordable treat that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Soft and buttery cookies that are simply irresistible.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s tea time or a sweet treat, they fit any context.
Quick to Prepare: From mixing to baking, you can have cookies ready in about 30 minutes.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into baking these delightful Southern Tea Cake Cookies, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the appropriate tools. Start by organizing your ingredients on the countertop: you’ll need unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Optionally, have some milk on hand to adjust the dough’s consistency if needed.

To ensure a smooth baking process, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent your cookies from sticking and make for easier cleanup. You’ll also want to have a large mixing bowl for creaming the butter and sugar, a whisk for mixing the dry ingredients, and a spatula for combining everything together. A cookie scoop will help you create even dough balls, ensuring uniform baking. With your workspace set up and your ingredients prepped, you’re ready to embark on this baking adventure!

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 to 2 tablespoons milk (if needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugar

Begin by placing the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. With an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, cream them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process is crucial as it incorporates air into the butter, providing a lighter texture to your cookies. Allow about 3-4 minutes for this step, and be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything mixes evenly.

Step 2: Adding Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, one at a time. This gradual incorporation helps maintain the creamy texture. After each egg, mix well until fully combined. Once both eggs are in, add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything is well blended. The vanilla adds a beautiful aroma and depth of flavor, making the cookies even more appealing.

Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is key to achieving the perfect texture in your cookies. Once well mixed, gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until a dough begins to form. If it feels too stiff, you can increase the moisture by adding one to two tablespoons of milk, ensuring a smooth dough that holds together without being overly sticky.

Step 4: Chilling the Dough

Once your dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough not only enhances the flavors but also makes it easier to scoop and shape later on. This step is essential for creating that perfect soft texture when baked.

Step 5: Baking the Cookies

After the dough has chilled, line your baking sheet with parchment paper if you haven’t done so already. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each to allow for spreading. Gently flatten each ball slightly so they cook evenly. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until you see the edges turn lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them as they can go from perfect to overbaked quickly.

Step 6: Cooling and Serving

Once baked, take the cookies out of the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes, allowing them to set before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is important; while the cookies may seem soft at first, they will firm up as they cool. Let them cool completely before digging in for the best texture and flavor.

Variations

Protein: Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Vegetables: Incorporate grated lemon or orange zest for a citrusy kick that brightens the cookies.
Spices: Infuse the dough with ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced version perfect for the holidays.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easy creaming; this will create a smoother cookie texture.
Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially when measuring flour, to prevent dry cookies.
Adjust baking time according to your oven’s accuracy; every oven is different, and slight variations may alter baking times.
If you want thicker cookies, skip flattening the dough balls before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Southern Tea Cake Cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon break.
For an indulgent treat, serve them alongside fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to a week to maintain freshness.
Freeze unbaked cookies by placing the dough balls on a parchment-lined sheet; once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for easy cookie-making any time.
Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or lemon to create your unique twist on these classic cookies.
For added sweetness, drizzle a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk over cooled cookies.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 135 calories per cookie
Protein: 1.5 grams
Sodium: 60 mg

FAQs

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels too sticky to handle, sprinkle in a bit more flour—about a tablespoon at a time—until the desired consistency is achieved.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

How can I make these cookies healthier?

To make these cookies healthier, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and using coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.

What is the best way to store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Southern Tea Cake Cookies hold a special place in the world of baking, offering an accessible yet undeniably delicious treat that everyone can enjoy. Their rich, buttery flavor combined with a simple preparation makes them a beloved choice for gatherings and celebrations. These cookies promise to charm your palate and become a lasting layer of fond memories with every batch prepared. Whether shared with friends or savored alone alongside your favorite beverage, these cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re a gateway to comfort and nostalgia. So why not give this Southern classic a try? Once you bake them, you might find yourself making them time and time again. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment, share your thoughts, or even your variations—everyone loves a little creativity in the kitchen!