Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a timeless, classic dessert that hails from the heart of Southern hospitality. These cookies are perfect for afternoon tea, a sweet snack, or a delightful dessert. They are simple, buttery, and flavored with a hint of vanilla, making them a favorite for all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon baking soda. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature stick of unsalted butter and ¾ cup granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla
- Add the room temperature egg and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
6. Scoop and Shape the Dough
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be slightly soft.
8. Cool the Cookies
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook’s Notes and Variations
Notes:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that both the butter and egg are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and well-combined dough.
- Measuring Flour: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure the flour to avoid packing too much into the cup, which can result in dense cookies.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Variations:
- Lemon Tea Cakes: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- Almond Tea Cakes: Substitute 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Spiced Tea Cakes: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced version.
Keto and Low-Carb Version
Keto Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup erythritol or other keto-friendly sweetener
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Keto Instructions:
- Follow the same instructions as the original recipe, but use the keto ingredients. The method remains the same, ensuring a delicious low-carb treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I freeze the baked cookies?
A: Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: What type of butter should I use?
A: Unsalted butter is recommended for this recipe to control the amount of salt. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Q: How can I make my cookies softer?
A: Avoid overbaking the cookies. They should be just lightly golden on the edges when you remove them from the oven.
Q: Can I use a different extract instead of vanilla?
A: Yes, you can use almond extract, lemon extract, or any other flavoring you prefer. Adjust the quantity to your taste.
Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a delightful, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea, as a snack, or as a dessert, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face. The simple ingredients and easy preparation make them a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, with the keto and low-carb variation, everyone can enjoy these tasty cookies. Happy baking!
