Southern Tea Cakes are classic, soft, and slightly sweet cookies with a cake-like texture, often enjoyed with tea or coffee. Here’s a simple and traditional recipe for you:
Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Ingredients:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk or whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar:
• In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add Eggs & Vanilla:
• Beat in the eggs, one at a time.
• Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients:
• Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the buttermilk (or milk). Mix until combined.
6. Shape the Cookies:
• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
• Place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
• Lightly flatten each dough ball with your fingers or the back of a spoon.
7. Bake:
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
8. Enjoy:
• Serve warm or at room temperature with tea, coffee, or milk.
Tips:
• For a softer cookie, don’t overbake.
• Add a little lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
• Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Would you like a variation, like a glaze on top?