Old-fashioned Southern tea cakes hold a dear spot in the culinary traditions of many Southern homes, and they’re not just any ordinary cookie—they’re a cherished heirloom that brings warmth and comfort to any table. These delightfully simple cookies are ideal for a range of occasions, from holiday celebrations to serene afternoons spent sipping tea in the sun. If you’ve been searching for that perfect tea cake recipe, look no further! I’m thrilled to share a family recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. These tea cakes were a constant presence in my grandmother’s kitchen, a staple treat that awaited family and friends alike. The scent of these baking would fill the house with such a sweet, inviting aroma that brings back the fondest memories.
Now, let’s get baking and create some sweet memories of your own with this tried-and-true recipe for Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes.
Ingredients:
3 cups plain flour
1 cup butter, softened
1¾ cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon powdered nutmeg
Instructions:
Prepare for Baking: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This helps create the perfect texture for your tea cakes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aromatic touch.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients will add the subtle flavors that make these tea cakes so irresistible.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add your dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, stirring until everything is well combined. The dough will be fairly stiff, which is just what we need for the perfect tea cake texture.
Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This step is crucial as it makes the dough easier to handle.
Shape and Bake: Once chilled, take the dough out and pinch off pieces, rolling them into 1-inch balls. Place these on your prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or a cookie stamp to form a round disk.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or just until the edges are a delicate golden brown. Watch them closely to ensure they don’t overcook.
Cool: Allow the tea cakes to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once completely cooled, store your Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just a simple treat to enjoy at home, these tea cakes are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Enjoy baking, serving, and most of all, eating these little slices of Southern tradition!