Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Enjoy the timeless charm of Southern Tea Cake Cookies! Delicately flavored with warm nutmeg notes, rich buttery goodness, and a touch of vanilla, these old-fashioned treats—crafted from simple pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, an egg, salt, and baking soda—bring a taste of classic Southern baking right into your home.

Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
All-purpose flour	1 ½ cups
Salt	¼ teaspoon
Baking soda	¼ teaspoon
Unsalted butter, softened	1 stick
Granulated sugar	¾ cup
Large egg, room temperature	1
Vanilla extract	2 teaspoons

Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking soda with a whisk. Set aside for later.
2. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar on high until pale and fluffy, about 4–5 minutes.
3. Reduce the mixer speed to medium and blend in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients in three portions, mixing gently between each addition until the dough forms.
5. Place the dough into a zip-top bag and refrigerate for at least an hour so it firms up.
6. Preheat your oven to 325°F when you’re ready to bake.
7. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
8. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions, shape into balls, and lightly press the tops with your thumb. Arrange them on the tray leaving roughly 1½ inches between each one.
9. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges show a hint of golden color. Allow them to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Tea Cakes

• Let ingredients come to room temperature for smoother mixing and superior texture.
• Keep cookies in an airtight container to enjoy them for up to a week.
• For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to three months—no loss of taste or quality.