Buttery, soft, and delicately sweet—just like Grandma used to make! These classic Southern tea cakes are a simple, nostalgic cookie with a cake-like texture, perfect with coffee, tea, or as a lunchbox treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Simple ingredients – Just pantry staples!
✅ Soft & cakey – Like a cross between a cookie and a biscuit.
✅ Nostalgic flavor – A taste of Southern tradition.
✅ Perfect for any occasion – From holiday cookie trays to everyday snacking.
Ingredients (Makes ~24 cookies)
For the Tea Cakes:
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or almond extract for a twist)
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup (60ml) buttermilk (or milk + ½ tsp vinegar)
Optional Toppings:
- Coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
- Lemon zest (for brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cream Butter & Sugar
- In a bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (~3 mins).
- Mix in egg and vanilla.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
- Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
3. Make the Dough
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Cover and chill dough 1 hour (for easier handling).
4. Roll & Cut
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet.
- Roll dough ¼-inch thick on a floured surface.
- Cut into rounds (use a biscuit cutter or glass).
5. Bake
- Place on baking sheet, sprinkle with coarse sugar (if using).
- Bake 10-12 mins until edges are lightly golden.
6. Cool & Enjoy!
- Let cool 5 mins on the pan (they’ll firm up).
Pro Tips
🍋 Lemon twist – Add 1 tbsp zest to the dough for brightness.
🔥 Don’t overbake – They should stay soft.
📦 Storage – Keep in an airtight container for 5 days (freeze for longer).
Serving Ideas
☕ With tea or coffee – A classic pairing.
🍓 Dessert upgrade – Serve with fresh berries.
🎁 Gift-worthy – Pack in a pretty tin.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for AdSense
💰 “Southern tea cakes” = HIGH nostalgic search volume!
📸 Golden, rustic cookies = Maximum cravings.
🔄 Great for holidays, Southern cooking, and baking blogs.
Final Thoughts
These Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are simple, sweet, and full of heritage—just like Grandma’s kitchen. One bite, and you’ll be transported!
