These Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are a classic, buttery cookie that’s simple yet utterly delightful. With their tender texture and subtle hint of nutmeg, these cookies are perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a taste of Southern tradition. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time
- 20 minutes
Chill Time
- 30 minutes
Cook Time
- 8–10 minutes per batch
Total Time
- 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings
- About 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1¾ cups white sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and softened butter together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for a few turns until smooth.
- Shape the dough into a disc, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm. This step makes the dough easier to roll out.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) . Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
Step 5: Roll and Cut the Cookies
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough out to about ¼-inch thickness .
- Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into desired shapes. Place the cutouts 1½ inches apart on the prepared cookie sheets.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes , or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft and pale.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooled, arrange the cookies on a platter and serve with a glass of milk, tea, or coffee. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week .
Pro Tips
- Customization: Sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar or cinnamon-sugar before baking for added flair. You can also ice them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after cooling.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the dough for a unique twist.
- Storage: These cookies freeze beautifully! Layer them between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Rolling Tip: If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, pop it back in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes to firm up again.
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie, based on 24 cookies)
- Calories: ~140 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are the epitome of comfort in cookie form. Their buttery richness, delicate crumb, and nostalgic flavor make them a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking them for a special event or simply craving a homemade snack, these cookies are sure to bring warmth and joy.
Ready to bake up a batch of these Southern classics? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a plate of soft, buttery goodness—it’s like a hug in cookie form!
