Southern Tea Cake Cookies: A Classic Southern Delight

Name: Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-479567H12M9S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature); ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a beloved treat in the South, embodying a rich tradition of simple, yet delicious baking. These cookies are cherished for their tender crumb and buttery flavor, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table or tea time. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the origins of Southern Tea Cake Cookies, walk you through a detailed recipe, and provide tips for achieving the perfect batch. Plus, we’ll address some frequently asked questions to help you master this classic recipe.

The Tradition Behind Southern Tea Cake Cookies

A Brief History

Southern Tea Cake Cookies have deep roots in Southern culinary traditions. Historically, tea cakes were a staple in Southern households, often served during special occasions or simply enjoyed with a cup of tea. The term “tea cake” can refer to a variety of baked goods, but in the context of these cookies, it signifies a light, sweet treat that pairs wonderfully with a hot beverage.

These cookies are a testament to Southern hospitality, reflecting a time when simplicity and quality ingredients were key to creating comforting and delightful desserts. The Southern Tea Cake Cookie recipe has been passed down through generations, each family adding their own touch while keeping the core elements intact.

Why They Are So Loved

What makes Southern Tea Cake Cookies so special is their simplicity. The recipe uses basic ingredients, yet the result is a cookie that is both soft and slightly crisp around the edges. The balance of flavors and textures makes these cookies a favorite for many, whether enjoyed as a nostalgic treat or introduced to new generations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Southern Tea Cake Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature)
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg (room temperature)
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect cookie. Let’s break down why each one is essential:

Flour, Salt, and Baking Soda

Flour is the foundation of any cookie dough, providing structure. Salt enhances the flavors, while baking soda helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them a soft texture.

Butter and Sugar

Butter contributes to the rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb of the cookies. Granulated sugar sweetens the dough and helps with browning.

Egg and Vanilla Extract

The egg acts as a binding agent, giving the cookies structure and moisture. Vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Prepare Dry Ingredients

Whisk Together Flour, Salt, and Baking SodaIn a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon baking soda. Whisk these ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed. This step is crucial for achieving a consistent texture in your cookies.

Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat Butter and Sugar Until FluffyIn the bowl of a mixer, beat 1 stick of unsalted butter (room temperature) and ¾ cup of granulated sugar on high speed until the mixture is fluffy and smooth. This process usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Creaming the butter and sugar together incorporates air into the dough, which helps the cookies rise and become light.

Add Egg and Vanilla

Incorporate Egg and Vanilla ExtractReduce the mixer speed to medium. Add 1 large egg (room temperature) and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Beat until well combined. The egg and vanilla will blend into the butter and sugar mixture, enhancing the flavor and texture of the dough.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually Add Flour MixtureReduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the flour mixture in three intervals, mixing well after each addition. This gradual incorporation prevents the flour from creating a mess and ensures an even distribution throughout the dough.

Chill Dough

Refrigerate the DoughTransfer the dough to a Ziploc bag and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to shape and reducing spreading during baking.

Preheat Oven

Prepare for BakingOnce the dough is firm, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.

Shape Cookies

Form and Flatten Dough BallsUsing a tablespoon, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on the prepared cookie sheet, leaving about 1 ½ inches between each dough ball. Gently press the center of each ball with your thumb to flatten slightly. This step helps the cookies bake evenly and develop their characteristic shape.

Bake

Bake Until GoldenBake the cookies for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as cookies can quickly go from golden to burnt.

Cool and Serve

Cool on a Wire RackAllow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and prevents them from becoming too soft.

Tips for Perfect Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and egg are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements to achieve the right texture and flavor.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined to prevent tough cookies.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step. It’s essential for the right texture and to prevent spreading.
Monitor Baking Time: Cookies can quickly go from perfect to overdone, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Tea Cake Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of accompaniments. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a classic pairing. They also make great additions to dessert trays for special occasions or gatherings.

FAQ

What are Southern Tea Cake Cookies?

Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a traditional Southern treat known for their tender, buttery texture and subtle sweetness. They are often served with tea or coffee and are a staple in Southern baking.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

While you can use salted butter, it’s best to use unsalted butter to have more control over the amount of salt in your cookies. If you use salted butter, omit the added salt in the recipe.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. After chilling, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a Ziploc bag. You can bake the frozen dough balls directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much?

If your cookies spread too much, it may be due to the dough being too warm or not having enough flour. Ensure the dough is well-chilled and consider adding a little more flour if needed.