Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Southern Tea Cake Cookies offer the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, with a soft, buttery texture that is sure to remind you of classic Southern baking. With only a few simple ingredients, they come together quickly and easily, making them an ideal dessert for both experienced bakers and beginners. Their versatility also makes them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or serving them at a family gathering.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons milk
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Add the milk and mix until the dough is smooth.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten the dough slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Variations
- Add Citrus: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a subtle citrus twist.
- Spices: Incorporate ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts to add a bit of texture and flavor.
- Frosting: For a festive touch, top the cookies with a simple glaze or royal icing.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
While you can use salted butter, it may slightly alter the taste of the cookies. For the best results, unsalted butter is recommended.
2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.
3. Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Yes, feel free to use almond milk, soy milk, or any non-dairy milk as a substitute for regular milk.
4. Why are my cookies not spreading?
If your dough is too thick or cold, the cookies may not spread as much. Make sure to flatten the dough slightly before baking, and if the dough is too firm, let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes.
5. Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Yes! You can stir in chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough before baking for added flavor and texture.
6. How long will these cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container, the cookies will last for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
7. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
Yes, a hand mixer will work just fine for creaming the butter and sugar and mixing the dough.
8. Can I make these cookies into bars instead of individual cookies?
Yes, you can spread the dough evenly into a greased baking dish and bake it for 20-25 minutes, or until golden. Slice into bars once cooled.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly if necessary.
10. Can I decorate these cookies?
Absolutely! You can frost or glaze the cookies with icing or sprinkles for a fun, festive touch.
Conclusion
Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a simple, delicious treat that will fill your home with warmth and nostalgia. With their buttery texture and melt-in-your-mouth flavor, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying all to yourself. Whether you make them for a special occasion or as a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection!
Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe
Southern Tea Cake Cookies are buttery, soft, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. These nostalgic treats are simple to make and perfect for any occasion, from cozy afternoons with tea to family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Add the milk and mix until the dough is smooth.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten the dough slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Add Citrus: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing twist.
Spices: Add ground cinnamon or nutmeg to give the cookies a warm, spiced flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Frosting: Top the cookies with a simple glaze or royal icing for a festive touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
