Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe

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Soft, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet, Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a tradition that tastes like home. These old-fashioned cookies are simple in ingredients but rich in history, often served with sweet tea or tucked into tin boxes at family gatherings across the South. Their texture is somewhere between a sugar cookie and a shortbread, with a delicate crumb and a warm vanilla flavor that melts in your mouth.

Whether you’re recreating a cherished family recipe or trying them for the first time, these cookies bring instant comfort. They’re perfect for afternoon tea, bridal showers, holiday cookie trays, or just because you need something sweet. Add a light dusting of powdered sugar, or enjoy them plain with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. One bite, and you’ll understand why these are a staple in Southern baking.

What Makes a Tea Cake a Tea Cake?

Despite the name, Southern tea cakes aren’t cakes at all. They’re soft cookies that date back generations, often passed down through handwritten recipe cards. What makes them stand out is their cake-like texture, achieved through creaming butter and sugar until fluffy. They’re not flashy—no sprinkles or frosting—just a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth treat meant to be savored slowly, preferably with a warm cup of tea or lemonade.

Ingredients for the Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe

All-Purpose Flour
Forms the base of the cookie dough. It gives the cookies structure while keeping them soft.

Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the dough and helps create a tender crumb.

Unsalted Butter
Adds richness and moisture. Softened butter is key to achieving the creamy texture during mixing.

Eggs
Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookies’ soft texture.

Vanilla Extract
Brings warmth and that iconic Southern dessert flavor.

Baking Soda
Gives the cookies a gentle lift while keeping the edges soft.

Salt
Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.

Optional: Nutmeg or Lemon Zest
A classic Southern touch. Nutmeg adds warmth; lemon zest gives a fresh citrus twist.

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How To Make the Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is key to getting that soft, cake-like texture.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Then stir in the vanilla extract. This gives your cookies that deep, nostalgic flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. If you’re adding nutmeg or lemon zest, mix it in here.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.

Step 6: Roll and Shape

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. The centers should still be soft. Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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How to Serve and Store Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Serve these tea cakes as they were meant to be enjoyed: with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or even a cold glass of milk. They’re lovely on a tiered dessert tray for bridal showers or afternoon tea parties, and they hold their own beautifully alongside more decorative cookies on a holiday platter.

For storage, let the cookies cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They stay soft and delicious at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to make them ahead, freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving. Want freshly baked flavor? Pop them in a 300°F oven for 3 minutes.

What to Serve With Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies?

Hot Southern Sweet Tea

A classic pairing with its deep amber color and subtle sweetness.

Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream

Serve a few cookies alongside a bowl of strawberries or blueberries with a dollop of cream.

Lemon Curd or Raspberry Jam

Spread a little on the side for dipping or topping—adds a lovely tangy contrast.

Ice Cream

Pair them with a scoop of vanilla bean or butter pecan for a dreamy dessert.

Spiced Chai Latte

The warm spices in chai bring out the vanilla and optional nutmeg in the cookies.

Honey-Drizzled Ricotta

A simple but elegant combo that feels both rustic and refined.

Pecan Praline Crumble

Sprinkle some over your cookies for added texture and that Southern charm.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Southern Twist?

If you adore these Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies, here are some other must-try treats that bring nostalgic sweetness to your kitchen:

• Jimmy Carter’s Grandmother’s Peanut Butter Cookies for that old-school peanut buttery richness.
• Lemon Curd Cake To Die For if you’re craving citrusy brightness baked into soft bites.
• Twix Cookie Cups for a modern, gooey upgrade to tea time.
• Cinnamon Sugar Mini Donuts for those who love classic flavors in adorable form.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies when you want fruity, creamy indulgence in every bite.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it anytime you need a soft, nostalgic sweet.

Did your tea cakes have a sprinkle of nutmeg? A twist of lemon? Share your version in the comments and let’s keep this sweet Southern tradition going.

Explore more timeless bakes and sweet discoveries over at ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest. From cookies to cakes, your next favorite dessert is just a scroll away!

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