Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern Tea Cakes are a beloved classic from Southern kitchens, known for their soft, cake-like texture and lightly sweet flavor. These cookies are simple, nostalgic, and often passed down through generations. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, they offer comfort and warmth with every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggsvanilla extractbaking sodaoranges zest (optional)saltbuttermilk

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, until a soft dough forms.

If using orange zest, gently fold it into the dough.

Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.

Cut into rounds or desired shapes using cookie cutters.

Place the tea cakes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.

Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 tea cakes.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 8–10 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add nutmeg or cinnamon for a spiced flavor.

Swap vanilla for almond or lemon extract for a flavor twist.

Frost with a simple glaze for added sweetness.

Use cookie stamps for a decorative finish.

storage/reheating

Store Southern Tea Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months.
To refresh, warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

What texture should Southern Tea Cakes have?
They should be soft and slightly cakey, not crunchy like typical cookies.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, buttermilk gives a richer flavor. You can also make a substitute with milk and lemon juice.

Are these cookies very sweet?
They have a mild, comforting sweetness perfect for pairing with tea or coffee.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for 2 months.

Can I add raisins or nuts?
Yes, chopped nuts or dried fruit can be folded into the dough for extra texture.

Do I have to chill the dough?
It’s not necessary, but chilling can help with easier rolling and cutting.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, this recipe doubles well for larger batches.

What gives these cookies their Southern charm?
The simplicity, soft texture, and nostalgic flavor rooted in tradition.

Are Southern Tea Cakes good for gifting?
Yes, they package beautifully and make a lovely homemade gift.

Conclusion

Southern Tea Cakes are a comforting, old-fashioned treat that brings a taste of Southern hospitality to your kitchen. Their tender texture and gentle sweetness make them perfect for everyday enjoyment or special occasions. Bake a batch and experience the timeless charm of these classic cookies.