Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a beloved staple in Southern kitchens, cherished for their simple ingredients and delightful, buttery flavor. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat. Their tender, slightly sweet taste and subtle vanilla notes make them a timeless classic. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious cookies that evoke the warmth and comfort of Southern home cooking.
Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups
- Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Milk: 2 tablespoons
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or a whisk)
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters (optional)
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should become smooth and slightly creamy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures a uniform texture in your cookies.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Add Milk: Stir in the milk until the dough comes together. It should be soft but not too sticky. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a bit more milk, one teaspoon at a time.
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. You can use a rolling pin to help with this. If you prefer, you can use cookie cutters to shape the cookies or simply cut them into squares or rounds with a knife.
- Cut and Place: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes or simply cut the dough into desired shapes. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should be set but still soft.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor Variations: Add a bit of lemon zest, almond extract, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for a different flavor profile.
- Decorating: You can frost these cookies with a simple glaze or icing, or sprinkle them with colored sugar before baking for a festive touch.
- Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well—just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Dough Prep: If you’re making the dough ahead of time, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling out.
Conclusion
Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a delightful treat that bring the flavors of the South to your table. Their simplicity is matched by their rich, buttery taste, making them a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or serving them at a gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Embrace the charm and tradition of Southern baking with these easy-to-make, delicious tea cakes. Enjoy every bite of this classic Southern delight!
