Southern tea cake cookies are like a warm hug in cookie form! They’re soft, sweet, and just melt in your mouth, making them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a lively family gathering. I remember my grandma whipping up a batch every Sunday afternoon, filling the whole house with that delightful buttery smell. We’d sit around the table, sipping sweet tea and nibbling on these heavenly cookies, sharing stories and laughter. It was pure joy! The best part? They’re super easy to make, and trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to bake them every week! So, let’s dive into the world of these lovely little treats and create some delicious memories together!
Ingredients for Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking these delightful cookies! 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 mixing!)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (this adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (just a pinch to enhance all the sweet goodness!)
That’s it! With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a batch of cookies that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to measure carefully and enjoy the process!
How to Prepare Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s get baking! The process is so straightforward, you’ll find yourself whipping these up in no time. Here’s how I do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because a properly heated oven ensures even baking!
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. I like to use an electric mixer for this, but a good old-fashioned wooden spoon does the trick too! You want it to be light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Next, add in the large egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. Don’t skip the vanilla—it’s what makes these cookies sing!
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder so your cookies rise perfectly.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. I like to do this in two or three parts, mixing gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies, and we want them soft and tender!
- Now, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each cookie. I usually use a tablespoon for this, but you can use a cookie scoop if you have one for more uniform cookies!
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them—every oven varies a bit!
- Once they’re done, let the cookies cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before transferring them. This helps them firm up a bit and makes them easier to handle.
And there you have it—simple steps to delicious Southern tea cake cookies! Enjoy the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake; it’s one of my favorite parts!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delightful Southern tea cake cookies! Each cookie is a little treat that brings joy without too much guilt. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per cookie:
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But honestly, who’s counting when you’re enjoying a cookie that tastes this good? Just savor every bite and enjoy the sweet moments they bring!
Why You’ll Love Southern Tea Cake Cookies
- They’re quick to whip up—perfect for when you need a last-minute treat!
- The delightful flavor strikes a balance between sweet and buttery, making them irresistible.
- Soft and tender texture that just melts in your mouth with every bite.
- Versatile enough to serve at any occasion—from family gatherings to afternoon tea!
- Simple ingredients mean you probably have everything you need right in your pantry.
- They store well, so you can enjoy them fresh for days or share them with friends.
- Great base for fun variations; add your favorite extracts or mix-ins for a twist!
Tips for Success with Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Getting these Southern tea cake cookies just right is all about a few simple tricks that I’ve picked up over the years. Here are my top tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time!
- Check Your Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated. An oven thermometer can be a lifesaver! If it runs too hot or too cool, your cookies might not bake evenly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and butter make a difference in flavor and texture. If your ingredients are nearing their expiration date, they may not perform as well!
- Don’t Overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, tender ones we love.
- Chill the Dough (if needed): If your dough feels too soft or sticky, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better.
- Leave Some Space: When dropping the dough onto your baking sheet, remember to leave some space between each cookie. They spread a bit while baking, so give them room to breathe!
- Cool on a Wire Rack: Once baked, let the cookies cool on a wire rack. This allows air to circulate around them, preventing them from getting soggy on the bottom.
- Trust Your Senses: Keep an eye (and nose) on your cookies while they bake! The edges should be lightly golden, and you’ll know they’re done when you can smell that heavenly buttery aroma wafting through your kitchen.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect batch of Southern tea cake cookies that everyone will rave about!
Variations on Southern Tea Cake Cookies
One of the best things about Southern tea cake cookies is their versatility! You can easily customize them to fit your tastes or the occasion. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up a bit:
- Lemon Zest: For a bright and zesty twist, add the zest of one lemon to the dough. It brings a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness!
- Almond Extract: Swap out the vanilla for almond extract. Just a teaspoon will add a lovely nutty aroma and elevate the flavor profile!
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in a handful of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite. Who doesn’t love a little chocolate, right?
- Chopped Nuts: Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch. They add texture and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the softness of the cookie.
- Spices: Experiment with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor. Perfect for those chilly days when you want something comforting!
- Frosting: Once cooled, you can drizzle a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting on top for an extra sweet touch. Just mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla, and you’re all set!
These variations make it easy to keep things interesting and cater to everyone’s preferences. Have fun experimenting, and don’t hesitate to make these cookies your own! Trust me, every batch will be a hit!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked a delicious batch of Southern tea cake cookies, you’ll want to enjoy them for as long as possible! Here’s how to store them properly so they stay fresh and tasty:
- Airtight Container: Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them. Then, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them soft and prevents them from drying out. I like to layer parchment paper between the cookies to avoid them sticking together—just a little extra care!
- Room Temperature: You can store the cookies at room temperature for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigeration: If you want them to last a bit longer, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for about 2 weeks. Just keep in mind that they might lose a little of their softness, but they’ll still taste delightful!
- Freezing: For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
Reheating is super simple! If you prefer your cookies warm and soft, just microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, or if you love that freshly baked feel, pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. Trust me, nothing beats the aroma of warm cookies filling your kitchen again!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your Southern tea cake cookies for days to come. Enjoy every sweet moment!
FAQ about Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Got questions about these delightful Southern tea cake cookies? No worries! I’ve gathered some of the most common queries I hear, along with my answers to help you out!
How long do these cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for about a week. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. Just remember, they might lose a bit of their softness in the fridge!
Can I freeze Southern tea cake cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they’ll keep for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature, or warm them up in the microwave.
What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the right texture. Otherwise, all-purpose flour works perfectly!
Can I make these cookies without butter?
You can substitute butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative! Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
What if I don’t have granulated sugar?
You can use brown sugar instead for a deeper flavor! Just keep in mind that it might change the texture slightly, making them a bit chewier.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free butter substitute and make sure your vanilla extract is also dairy-free. They’ll still turn out delicious!
Can I add different flavors or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon, or mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. The possibilities are endless!
With these answers, I hope you feel ready to bake up a storm and tackle any questions you might have about making these scrumptious Southern tea cake cookies!
Print
Southern Tea Cake Cookies: 2 Simple Steps to Blissful Joy
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Southern tea cake cookies are soft, sweet, and perfect for any occasion.
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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on a wire rack.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- For added flavor, you can add lemon zest.
- Pair with tea or coffee for a classic treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: southern tea cake cookies
