Description
Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are classic, buttery cookies with a tender crumb and a hint of nutmeg. Perfectly simple and nostalgic, these cookies are a beloved Southern dessert that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Tea Cakes
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for classic flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which helps to create a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them, then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and optional nutmeg to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix just until a soft dough forms; avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your hands, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and flatten each slightly. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden, indicating they are perfectly baked without being overdone.
- Cool and Serve: Let the tea cakes cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they hold their shape and texture.
Notes
- For softer cookies, be careful not to overbake; watch closely toward the end of baking time.
- These tea cakes are traditionally simple, but dusting them with powdered sugar or glazing adds a sweeter touch.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature; they stay fresh for several days.
