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Southern Tea Cakes

Southern Tea Cakes
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Southern Tea Cakes are a classic Southern treat known for their soft, buttery texture and subtle sweetness. These tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are easy to make using simple pantry ingredients and perfect for enjoying with tea or coffee. Their delicate crumb and powdered sugar finish make them a nostalgic favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and let the butter come to room temperature to ensure easy mixing. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder to evenly distribute the baking powder and help the tea cakes rise tenderly.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, incorporating air that creates a tender texture in your tea cakes.
  4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, adding moisture and rich flavor to the dough.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture alternately with the milk, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the tea cakes soft and tender.
  6. Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into small balls about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes until set and lightly golden at the edges.
  7. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool slightly, then generously dust with powdered sugar for a classic Southern finish.

Notes

  • Butter Temperature: Use room temperature butter for best creaming results and tender texture.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid tough cookies.
  • Even Sizing: Roll dough balls to uniform size for consistent baking.
  • Watch Baking Time: Bake until edges are lightly golden for soft texture.
  • Fresh Powdered Sugar: Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to avoid melting.

Nutrition

Keywords: Southern Tea Cakes, soft cookies, buttery cookies, Southern dessert, easy cookie recipe, classic tea cakes, gluten-free tea cakes

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/southern-tea-cakes/