Southern Tea Cake Cookies Bring Sweet Comfort to 2 Generations

Name: Southern Tea Cake Cookies Bring Sweet Comfort to 2 Generations
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

August 22, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Welcome, dear friends! I’m so excited to share my favorite *southern tea cake cookies* with you today. These little delights are soft, sweet, and truly capture the essence of Southern hospitality. I can still remember the aroma wafting through my grandmother’s kitchen as she baked these cookies for our family gatherings. We’d sit around the table, sipping sweet tea and nibbling on these tender treats, sharing stories and laughter. Trust me, there’s something magical about the way they melt in your mouth! Whether it’s a cozy afternoon at home or a festive celebration, these cookies are the perfect companion. I can’t wait for you to try them and create your own cherished memories!

Ingredients List

To whip up a batch of these delightful *southern tea cake cookies*, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming!)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (the more pure, the better for that lovely flavor)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

That’s it! These ingredients are staples in most kitchens, making it super easy to whip these cookies up anytime the craving strikes. I always keep these on hand for impromptu baking sessions! Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, I recommend adding a bit of lemon zest for a refreshing twist. Trust me, it takes these cookies to another level!

How to Prepare Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the magical process of making these delightful *southern tea cake cookies*! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm batch of cookies in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures your cookies bake evenly and turn out just right!

Creaming the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. You want to mix until it becomes light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Trust me, this step is key for that perfect texture!

Mixing in Egg and Vanilla

Next, add in your large egg and the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is nicely combined. You’ll love the sweet aroma that fills your kitchen!

Preparing Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute everything evenly and prevents any lumps from sneaking into your cookie dough.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined—don’t overdo it! You want to preserve that soft texture.

Forming the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart—these cookies spread a little, so give them some room to shine!

Baking the Cookies

Pop those lovelies into the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is a bit different!

Cooling the Cookies

Once baked, let the cookies cool on a wire rack. This step is crucial to maintain their soft, tender texture. Patience pays off here, I promise!

Tips for Success

Making the perfect batch of *southern tea cake cookies* is all about a few little tricks! First, make sure your butter is just the right temperature—softened but not melting. This really helps achieve that fluffy texture when creaming with sugar. Also, don’t skip the whisking of the dry ingredients; it ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed, so every bite is deliciously consistent!

Be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined keeps your cookies light and tender. And if you want to get extra fancy, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This can help the cookies hold their shape better while baking. Lastly, keep an eye on them towards the end of baking—every oven is unique, and you want those lovely, golden edges! Happy baking!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

It’s important to note that the nutritional information for these *southern tea cake cookies* can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. While I strive to provide accurate estimates, the values are not guaranteed to be precise. Always check the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate nutritional content. Enjoy these cookies in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of flour?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of flour, but keep in mind that it might change the texture of your *southern tea cake cookies*. For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure it has a good binding agent, like xanthan gum, so your cookies hold together nicely. If you decide to use whole wheat flour, it’ll give the cookies a denser texture and a bit of nuttiness, which can be quite delightful. Just remember, each type of flour can bring its own unique flair!

How should I store the cookies?

To keep your *southern tea cake cookies* fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last about a week—if they last that long! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good for about two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature. Trust me, they taste just as good as fresh-baked!

Can I add extras to the recipe?

Oh, definitely! Adding extras to your *southern tea cake cookies* is one of the best parts! You can mix in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise, or toss in some chopped nuts for a little crunch. If you’re feeling zesty, a tablespoon of lemon zest will brighten up the flavor beautifully! You can also add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy aroma. The possibilities are endless—get creative and make this recipe your own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re wondering why *southern tea cake cookies* should be your next baking adventure, let me tell you! These little delights are not only simple to make, but they also come with a whole host of benefits that’ll make you fall in love at first bite:

They’re soft and tender, melting in your mouth with every bite.
Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive party.
Made with pantry staples, so you can whip them up anytime the craving strikes!
Customizable with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or citrus zest.
Quick to bake—ready in just about 30 minutes from start to finish!
They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a delightful afternoon treat.
These cookies are a wonderful way to share a bit of Southern hospitality with friends and family.

Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these cookies are a cherished classic. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

These delightful *southern tea cake cookies* are perfect on their own, but if you want to elevate your experience, I’ve got some fantastic serving suggestions for you! Pairing them with the right accompaniments can take your cookie enjoyment to a whole new level.

Sweet Tea: There’s nothing quite like a glass of freshly brewed sweet tea alongside these cookies. The sweetness of the tea complements the cookies perfectly, creating a refreshing Southern treat.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee is a classic pairing. Whether you prefer it black or with cream and sugar, the rich flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness of the cookies.
Fruit Compote: Serve these cookies with a dollop of homemade fruit compote or preserves. Strawberry or peach preserves add a lovely fruity touch that pairs beautifully with the buttery cookies.
Whipped Cream: For a more indulgent experience, top each cookie with a swirl of whipped cream. It adds a light, airy texture that’s simply irresistible!
Ice Cream: Why not take it up a notch and sandwich a cookie with a scoop of your favorite ice cream? It’s a delightful twist that makes for a scrumptious dessert!

These suggestions are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect pairing. Enjoy your baking and happy munching!