Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
Introduction
Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are a delightful treat that brings back memories of simpler times. These cookies are soft, buttery, and sweet, making them perfect for any occasion. They have a rich flavor and a tender texture that makes them hard to resist. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served at a family gathering, these tea cakes are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes is an excellent way to connect with tradition and share a piece of Southern culture. They are easy to prepare and use simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Plus, these cookies are perfect for both kids and adults. Baking them can turn into a fun activity for the whole family, and the results are sure to bring smiles all around.
How to Make Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of delicious Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes:
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups white sugar
- 1 cup butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions
- Beat sugar and butter together in a large bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Beat in vanilla extract.
- Combine flour, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg in a separate bowl; then stir this mixture into the creamed mixture.
- Knead the dough for a few turns on a floured board until smooth.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/4 inch in thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
- Place cookies 1 1/2 inches apart onto cookie sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven until edges are golden, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Cool on the cookie sheets briefly before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
Serving Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes is simple. Place them on a pretty platter or in a cookie jar and share them with friends and family. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or milk. You can also decorate them with icing or dust them with powdered sugar for a special touch.
How to Store Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
You can store your tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer time, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Don’t skimp on the cooling time in the refrigerator; this helps the dough hold its shape when baking.
- Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or chocolate chips for a different flavor twist.
Variation
You can make variations of Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes by adding different spices such as cinnamon or allspice. You can also create fun shapes for holidays or special occasions using themed cookie cutters.
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they can bake quickly.
3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can, but the texture will be denser. It’s best to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour if you want a healthier option.
