There’s something deeply comforting about a recipe passed down through generations—and Southern Tea Cake Cookies are just that. Not quite a cake, not quite a cookie, these golden treats have been a staple in Southern kitchens for decades. Their lightly crisp edges, tender centers, and subtle warmth from nutmeg and vanilla make them an irresistible addition to any cookie tin.

Whether you’re enjoying them with a glass of sweet tea or sneaking one (or three) with your morning coffee, tea cakes offer a taste of home. And best of all? They’re made with simple pantry staples.

 

 

Ingredients for Southern Tea Cake Cookies

• 1 ½ cups All-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Baking soda
• 1 stick (½ cup) Unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup Granulated sugar
• 1 Large egg, room temp
• 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract

 

 

How to Make Southern Tea Cake Cookies

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on high speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—about 4–5 minutes.

3. Add Egg and Vanilla
Reduce the mixer speed to medium. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then beat until fully combined.

4. Combine with Dry Mix
Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, mixing gently after each addition. Stop once everything is just incorporated—don’t overmix.

5. Chill the Dough
Transfer the dough to a Ziploc bag or wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step helps the cookies hold their shape and develop better flavor.

6. Preheat & Prepare
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough, roll them into balls, and place on the prepared sheet. Gently press the center of each dough ball with your thumb or the back of a spoon to slightly flatten.

8. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Let them rest on the pan for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

 

 

Tips for the Best Homemade Tea Cakes

• Room Temperature is Key: Use room-temperature butter and egg for a smooth, cohesive dough.
• Don’t Skip the Chill: Chilling helps the cookies hold their soft, puffy texture.
• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
• Freeze for Later: These cookies freeze beautifully! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

 

 

A Bite of the South

Tea cakes aren’t flashy—but they’re full of heart. They’re the kind of cookie that reminds you of your grandmother’s kitchen or a warm Sunday afternoon on the porch. If you’re looking for a classic Southern cookie recipe with simple ingredients and timeless flavor, this is it.

Pair them with a cup of tea, coffee, or even cold milk. No matter how you serve them, these cookies deliver the warm embrace of homemade Southern baking in every bite.