Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Tender, lightly sweet, and softly spiced cookies, perfect for pairing with tea or coffee. These Southern classic cookies are cozy and nostalgic, ideal for gifting or potlucks.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 90

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Pantry Staples

1 cup Unsalted butter, room temperature Should give slightly when pressed, not melty.
1 cup Granulated sugar Provides gentle sweetness.
1 large Egg Helps bind and adds richness.
2 teaspoons Vanilla extract Use good vanilla for best flavor.
1/4 cup Milk or buttermilk Buttermilk adds a slight tang.
3 cups All-purpose flour Base of the dough.
2 teaspoons Baking powder Provides light lift.
1/4 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Classic warm flavor.

Method

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Beat in the egg, vanilla, and milk or buttermilk until smooth. Don't worry if the mixture looks a little curdled.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Slowly add the dry mix to the wet mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
If the dough feels sticky, chill it in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to make it easier to scoop.
Shape the dough into balls and flatten gently with a glass. Optionally, sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking.

Baking

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, just until the edges look set and the bottoms are barely golden. Let them rest on the sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool.

Serving

Brew some tea or coffee and enjoy these cookies warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Store these cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.