Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe

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These pillowy, golden brown Southern Tea Cake Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a warm bite of Southern tradition. With their soft, cake-like texture and subtly sweet flavor, these cookies bring a nostalgic comfort that’s perfect with a cup of sweet tea or coffee. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or craving a quiet afternoon indulgence, these timeless cookies deliver simple elegance.

Originating from generations of Southern kitchens, tea cake cookies are as much about memory as they are flavor. They’re often the first cookie many Southerners learned to bake with a grandmother, and they remain a symbol of family warmth. While variations exist across households, this classic version balances butter, vanilla, and just the right touch of sugar to create a delightfully soft cookie that melts in your mouth.

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What Kind of Butter Should I Use?

For the best results, always opt for unsalted butter at room temperature. This gives you better control over the salt level in the dough and ensures the cookies have a tender, buttery texture without being overly salty. High-quality butter enhances the rich flavor that sets Southern Tea Cake Cookies apart from standard sugar cookies.

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Ingredients for the Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe

• All-Purpose Flour: This provides the structure. It’s essential to use just the right amount to avoid tough cookies.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies puff up slightly and stay soft inside.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the buttery richness.
• Unsalted Butter: The heart of the cookie—adds that classic Southern flavor and soft bite.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough without overpowering the subtle vanilla notes.
• Eggs: Bind the dough and contribute to the soft, cake-like texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth, giving the cookies their nostalgic flavor.

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How To Make the Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the unsalted butter and sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is key for achieving that soft, cakey crumb.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with its warm, aromatic base.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least an hour. This step makes the dough easier to handle and helps prevent excessive spreading in the oven.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underdone. They’ll continue cooking as they cool.

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How to Serve and Store Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Serve these cookies warm with a cup of sweet tea, coffee, or cold milk. Their lightly crisp edges and soft centers make them versatile for both dessert trays and mid-day snacks. Want to add a twist? Sprinkle with a touch of cinnamon sugar or top with a drizzle of lemon glaze for an updated flair.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

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What to Serve With Southern Tea Cake Cookies?

Sweet Tea or Iced Coffee

A Southern classic that brings out the cookie’s vanilla notes.

Lemon Curd

The citrus zing pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness of the tea cakes.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries or blueberries add a bright, fruity contrast.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Sandwich a scoop between two cookies for an old-fashioned treat.

Whipped Cream and Peaches

Perfect for turning these cookies into a quick shortcake-style dessert.

Cream Cheese Dip

A tangy dip makes an unexpected yet delightful pairing.

Warm Apple Compote

Adds a cozy fall twist.

Hot Cocoa

Especially in colder months, a mug of cocoa brings out the cookie’s buttery richness.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Southern Tea Cake Cookies, you’ll definitely want to try these irresistible bakes:

• Salted Caramel Cupcakes for a sweet-salty combo in handheld form.
• Raspberry Cookies Recipe if you like a pop of fruity tartness.
• Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies for a true Southern classic.
• Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Cookies for a creamy, tangy finish.
• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

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Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of almond extract or a hint of lemon zest? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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