Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes

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Introduction

Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are a beloved classic in Southern kitchens, offering a soft, slightly sweet treat that falls somewhere between a cookie and a cake. Passed down through generations, these tea cakes were often made by grandmothers as a simple yet special dessert for family gatherings.

Ingredients

To make traditional Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes, you’ll need the following :

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
  • ¼ cup buttermilk (or whole milk)

Instructions

1: Prepare for Baking

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

  1. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  2. This step is crucial for achieving the soft, delicate texture of the tea cakes.

3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

  1. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  2. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

4: Mix Dry Ingredients

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg (if using).
  2. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for a consistent bake.

5: Combine Mixtures

  1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk.
  2. Mix until the dough is just combined—avoid overmixing, which can make the cookies tough.

6: Chill the Dough

  1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and cut into shapes.

7: Shape and Bake

  1. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness.
  2. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out the tea cakes.
  3. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
  4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.

8: Cool

  1. Remove the tea cakes from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
  2. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Lemon Tea Cakes – Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
  • Spiced Tea Cakes – Mix in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cloves for a warm, cozy flavor.
  • Glazed Tea Cakes – Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish.
  • Dairy-Free Option – Substitute butter with coconut oil and buttermilk with almond milk + 1 teaspoon vinegar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are Southern Tea Cakes?

Southern Tea Cakes are soft, lightly sweet cookies with a cake like texture. They have been a traditional Southern treat for generations, often enjoyed with tea or coffee.

2. Are Southern Tea Cakes the same as regular cakes?

No, despite the name, tea cakes are more like cookies than cakes. They have a dense, soft texture and are usually rolled and cut into round shapes before baking.

3. Can I make Southern Tea Cakes without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with whole milk or a mixture of 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice + enough milk to make ¼ cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

4. How do I store tea cakes to keep them fresh?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are a cherished treat that brings nostalgia and warmth with every bite. Their soft, cake-like texture and subtle sweetness make them perfect for any occasion, whether served with tea, coffee, or as a simple homemade dessert.

With easy to follow steps and simple ingredients, you can recreate this classic Southern favorite in your own kitchen. Plus, with variations like lemon, spiced, or glazed tea cakes, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste.

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