Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Step back in time with these charming Southern Tea Cake Cookies — a sweet bite of Southern tradition! With warm undertones of nutmeg, rich buttery flavor, and a soft vanilla essence, these simple yet nostalgic cookies are made from pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, and just a hint of salt and baking soda. Every bite feels like a warm welcome from the heart of the South.

What You’ll Need

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Dry Mix First: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
Cream the Butter & Sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar on high until the texture becomes fluffy and pale — about 4 to 5 minutes.
Add Egg & Vanilla: Lower the mixer speed to medium. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until fully blended.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, mixing after each addition until a soft dough forms.
Chill the Dough: Transfer the dough into a Ziploc bag or wrap it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to help the dough firm up.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Shape the Cookies: Use a tablespoon to portion the dough. Roll into balls, flatten gently with your thumb, and arrange on the baking sheet, leaving about 1½ inches of space between each.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the tray for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth, evenly mixed dough.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
Freeze extras by wrapping tightly and storing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

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