Description
Classic Southern Tea Cake Cookies are tender, buttery treats with a delicate crumb and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for afternoon tea or a comforting snack, these simple cookies bring a nostalgic Southern charm with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
Wet Ingredients
- 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on high speed until the mixture is fluffy and smooth, which takes about 4-5 minutes. This step is essential for a light texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Reduce mixer speed to medium and add the egg along with the vanilla extract. Beat until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is homogeneous.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Lower the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture in three separate additions, mixing well after each to ensure even distribution without overmixing.
- Chill the Dough: Transfer the dough into a Ziploc bag and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to handle and enhancing the cookie texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop the dough using a tablespoon measure, roll each portion into a ball, then gently press the center of each ball to flatten slightly. Arrange the cookies on the prepared sheet, spaced evenly.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes or until the edges turn a golden brown color, indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients ensure even mixing and better texture.
- Do not overbake to keep the cookies soft and tender.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and makes shaping easier.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness up to one week.
- For a slight variation, sprinkle a bit of sugar on top before baking for extra crunch.
