Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are a delightful addition to any baking repertoire, encapsulating a rich history and the warmth of Southern hospitality. These cookies, soft and buttery, are reminiscent of simpler times when families gathered for afternoon tea. With their light, airy texture and subtle sweetness, they’re perfect for savoring with loved ones or enjoying alone with a cup of your favorite tea. Ready to embark on a baking journey? This step-by-step recipe will guide you to making the perfect Southern Tea Cakes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes is generous in benefits. It involves easy prep and minimal ingredients, making it a breeze for both novice and experienced bakers alike. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a short baking period, you can have these delectable treats ready in no time. Plus, they’re family-friendly, perfect for creating cherished memories in the kitchen together. Their subtle flavors and delightful textures ensure that everyone will be reaching for seconds.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
To create these irresistible Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients, allowing the natural flavors to shine through:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – rich and creamy, this forms the base of our cookies.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – for that perfect touch of sweetness.
- 2 large eggs – to enrich the dough and add fluffiness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhancing the overall flavor profile with warmth.
- 1/2 tsp fresh lemon zest (optional) – for a refreshing hint to balance the sweetness.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – the foundation for our cookies, creating structure.
- 1 tsp baking soda – helps the cookies rise beautifully.
- 1/4 tsp salt – to enhance all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg or allspice (optional) – adds a warm spice note.
- 2–3 tbsp buttermilk or whole milk – for creaminess and moisture.
Step-by-Step Directions for Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, a process that typically takes about 3-5 minutes. This step is vital as it incorporates air, ensuring your tea cakes are tender and soft. Once fluffy, beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each egg before adding the next. Finish by mixing in the vanilla extract and optional lemon zest, enhancing that lovely, familiar aroma.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and optional spices like nutmeg or allspice. This step ensures that dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for consistent flavor and texture throughout your cookies.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Then, add the buttermilk or whole milk, a tablespoon at a time, until a soft, pliable dough forms. The dough should be moist but not sticky.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This step is essential as it makes the dough easier to handle when rolling out.
Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dough
Once chilled, sprinkle a lightly floured surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick and use cookie cutters to cut into circles or any desired shape. These cookies are traditionally round, but feel free to get creative!
Step 6: Bake the Tea Cakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes. The cookies should be just set and barely golden on the bottom. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, let the tea cakes cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your beautiful creations with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea!
Tips & Tricks
To achieve the best results with your Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes, consider these tips:
- Make sure your butter is truly softened at room temperature for easier creaming.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it significantly aids in handling and shaping the dough.
- Experiment with flavors! Consider adding almond or cinnamon for a twist.
- For a lovely finish, dust the cooled tea cakes with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve these delightful cookies as a snack for the afternoon tea or alongside fresh berries and whipped cream for a simple dessert. They also make a lovely treat at holiday gatherings, beautifully presented on a decorated platter. Consider pairing them with herbal teas, iced tea with lemon, or freshly brewed coffee for a delightful experience.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes, it’s wise to be mindful of the nutritional information. Each cookie contains approximately:
- Calories: 150 per cookie
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 35mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g
These numbers may vary depending on your specific ingredients and substitutions. Enjoy these treats in moderation, and you’ll savor every delightful bite!
Storing Tips & Variations for Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
To keep your Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the uncooked dough. Roll the dough into logs, wrap tightly in plastic, and freeze for up to three months—thaw before slicing and baking.
For a healthier twist, you can use whole wheat flour or coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar. Looking to elevate them even further? Try adding dried fruits like cranberries or nuts, or dip them in dark chocolate for an extra luxurious touch!
Conclusion for Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes wafting through your home, evoking memories of family gatherings and warm conversations. Don’t hesitate; gather your ingredients and bring this timeless recipe to life. Your family and friends will be so proud of your baking skills and will rave about these delightful treats. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s bake some memories!
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it’s best to omit additional salt from the recipe to balance flavors properly.
How long do these cookies last?
They can last up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature, though they’re best enjoyed fresh.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Roll the dough into logs, wrap well, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw before slicing and baking.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with whole milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
Can I add frosting to these cookies?
Definitely! For a sweet touch, add a simple powdered sugar glaze or even cream cheese frosting for a delicious twist.
Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
Ingredients
For the dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Rich and creamy, this forms the base of our cookies.
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar For that perfect touch of sweetness.
- 2 large eggs To enrich the dough and add fluffiness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhancing the overall flavor profile with warmth.
- 0.5 tsp fresh lemon zest (optional) For a refreshing hint to balance the sweetness.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour The foundation for our cookies, creating structure.
- 1 tsp baking soda Helps the cookies rise beautifully.
- 0.25 tsp salt To enhance all the flavors.
- 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg or allspice (optional) Adds a warm spice note.
- 2-3 tbsp buttermilk or whole milk For creaminess and moisture.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract and optional lemon zest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and optional spices.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Slowly add the buttermilk or whole milk until a soft, pliable dough forms.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into desired shapes.
- Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, until just set and barely golden on the bottom.
- Let the tea cakes cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.