Description

Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a delightful treat that embodies the warmth and charm of Southern hospitality. These cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet, making them a beloved staple in many family kitchens. Their origins trace back to the Southern United States, where they were often made to celebrate special occasions or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. What makes these cookies truly special is their simplicity; they require just a handful of ingredients and are incredibly easy to prepare, allowing anyone—from novice bakers to seasoned pros—to whip them up in no time. The subtle hints of vanilla and nutmeg elevate the flavor profile, while the tender texture makes them irresistible. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as they bake, inviting family and friends to gather around the kitchen. Whether you're looking to create new traditions or simply enjoy a sweet treat, Southern Tea Cake Cookies are the perfect choice.

Ingredients

• For the cookies:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• For the glaze (optional):
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Method

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for ensuring that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that golden-brown hue on the outside. As the oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl and sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. Sifting not only helps to combine the dry ingredients thoroughly but also aerates the flour, resulting in lighter cookies. Set this bowl aside for later.

In another mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. The sugar granules should dissolve into the butter, creating a creamy texture that is crucial for the cookies' structure.

Once your butter and sugar are perfectly mixed, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step is important because it adds moisture and richness to the dough. After the eggs are mixed in, pour in the pure vanilla extract and continue to beat the mixture until everything is well combined.

Now, it’s time to gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Lower the mixer speed to prevent flour from flying everywhere, or you can use a spatula to fold the flour mixture in if you prefer a more hands-on approach. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, and hold together well.

At this point, you can prepare your baking sheets. Line them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking. Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. This space is crucial as the cookies will spread while baking.

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The center should still appear soft, as they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking; this is how you achieve that perfect, tender texture.

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. After this, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is a great time to prepare the optional glaze if you choose to add a little extra sweetness to your cookies. Simply whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too runny; you want it to hold its shape when drizzled.

Once the cookies have cooled, you can drizzle the glaze over them using a spoon or a piping bag for more precision. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving, allowing it to harden slightly. These cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful when glazed, making them perfect for gatherings or as a thoughtful gift.

Tips and Conclusion

For a delightful twist, consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for added flavor and texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check the blend for suitable binding agents, as some may require additional eggs or xanthan gum. These cookies store beautifully in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion.



Making Southern Tea Cake Cookies is an experience filled with joy and nostalgia. From the enticing aroma that fills your home to the first bite of that tender, buttery cookie, each step of the process brings a smile to your face. These cookies are not just a dessert; they are a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. As you savor each bite, consider exploring more recipes that celebrate Southern cuisine, such as classic pecan pie or fluffy biscuits. Don’t forget to share this delightful recipe with friends and family, and encourage them to try their hand at baking these scrumptious cookies. Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet moment!