Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are a classic dessert that embodies the simplicity and charm of Southern baking. These delightful cookies are not only delicious but also steeped in tradition, often evoking fond memories of family gatherings and cherished moments. With their buttery, slightly sweet flavor and soft, cake-like texture, these tea cakes are perfect for any occasion.
My first introduction to Southern Tea Cakes was at my grandmother’s house during a summer visit. She would always have a batch ready for us, their aroma filling the kitchen and inviting us to indulge. I remember sitting at her wooden table, a glass of cold milk in hand, savoring each bite of these tender, fragrant treats. The experience was more than just about the taste; it was about the warmth and love that came with each tea cake. Today, making these tea cakes brings back those precious memories, and I’m thrilled to share this beloved recipe with you.
Ingredients
3 cups plain flour
1 cup butter, softened
1¾ cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon powdered nutmeg
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the tea cakes to a perfect golden brown.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will prevent the tea cakes from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Combine Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1¾ cups of granulated sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving the tea cakes their soft texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Incorporate the Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. This gradual addition helps maintain the mixture’s emulsification.
Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. This adds a lovely aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor of the tea cakes.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 3 cups of plain flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of powdered nutmeg. The nutmeg adds a subtle spice that gives the tea cakes their distinctive flavor.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, stirring until everything is well combined. The dough will be fairly stiff, which is necessary for the perfect tea cake texture.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and roll out, and it also helps the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Shape the Dough: Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Pinch off pieces and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Flatten the Dough: Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or a cookie stamp to form a round disk. This ensures that the tea cakes bake evenly.
Bake: Bake the tea cakes in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or just until the edges are a delicate golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, as this can make them dry.
Step 8: Cool
Cool on Baking Sheet: Allow the tea cakes to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This initial cooling period helps them set and makes them easier to transfer.
Cool Completely: Transfer the tea cakes to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy from residual steam.
Variations and Substitutions
Spices: While nutmeg is traditional, you can experiment with other spices such as cinnamon or allspice for a different flavor profile.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a fresh, citrusy twist.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the tea cakes gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Sugar Alternatives: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to make the recipe more suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Decorations: Dust the cooled tea cakes with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness and visual appeal.
Summary
Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with nostalgia. Their tender, cake-like texture and subtle sweetness make them perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. The recipe is straightforward, requiring just a few basic ingredients that come together to create something truly special.
These tea cakes are more than just a delicious dessert; they are a way to connect with the past and bring a piece of Southern tradition into your home. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these tea cakes are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Enjoy baking, sharing, and most of all, savoring these little slices of Southern heritage.
