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Southern Tea Cakes

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Southern Tea Cakes are perfect for afternoon coffee or tea. This old-fashioned recipe is similar to a sugar cookie and makes an easy snack.

old fashioned tea cakes piled up

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Southern Tea Cakes

Today, I’m sharing a Southern recipe with y’all. If I had to compare it to something, I’d tell you they are like sugar cookies, but not as sweet and more “cake-like,” but not really a cake. (Do I have you confused enough yet?!)

They are great with afternoon tea or a cup of coffee. If you prefer them a little sweeter, you can mix up an easy glaze and dip them – but I like ’em just plain ol’ regular. 😊

If this is your first time trying this recipe for Tea Cakes, don’t be surprised if you find them a bit on the bland side. They are not meant to be as sweet as some of the more traditional cookies most of us are used to. Feel free to dress them up – I’ve offered some tips – but I hope you try them in their traditional form first. Enjoy them for their simplicity.

southern tea cakes piled on a serving platter

Southern Tea Cake FAQs

How to store tea cakes?

You can store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze tea cakes?

Yes! For best results, wrap each cake in plastic wrap. Then, individually or group together cookies and wrap them in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
TO USE: Remove layers of aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Allow the cake to stand at room temperature for 2-3 hours or until thawed.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes! Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe airtight container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Recipe Tips

  • Although these cakes are great as written, sometimes options to change them up are also great. You can top these cakes with your favorite glaze. Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest to the batter. Or, add some pecans to the batter. Or maybe a sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top.
  • No buttermilk? You can substitute sour cream or plain yogurt in its place. Or quickly make your own buttermilk by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or distilled vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it.
four tea cake cookies stacked next to a glass milk bottle

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Southern tea cakes closeup view
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Southern Tea Cakes

Southern Tea Cakes

Yield: approximately 45 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Southern Tea Cakes are perfect for afternoon coffee or tea. This old-fashioned recipe is similar to a sugar cookie and makes an easy snack.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, at room temperature
  • 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons buttermilk
  • additional granulated sugar, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a baking sheet and set it aside.
  2. Beat butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer for 30 seconds. Add 1-1/4 cups sugar and vanilla; beat until fluffy. Add eggs; beat well.
  3. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt in a separate mixing bowl. Add to beaten mixture alternately with buttermilk.
  4. Drop by rounded teaspoons onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with sugar, if desired.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned on the edges.
  6. Allow to cool for 2-3 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Notes

  • Although these cakes are great as written, sometimes options to change them up are also great. You can top these cakes with your favorite glaze. Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest to the batter. Or, add some pecans to the batter. Or maybe a sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top.
  • No buttermilk? You can substitute sour cream or plain yogurt in its place. Or quickly make your own buttermilk by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or distilled vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 45 Serving Size: 1 cake
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 103Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 45mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 0gSugar: 18gProtein: 1g

Please note that the nutritional information listed on this page is an estimation based on the products I used. Ingredients and nutritional information can vary greatly between brands. Always be sure to read labels.

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© Jamie Sherman
Cuisine: Southern / Category: Southern Recipes

Originally published on July 21, 2012. Updated on June 8, 2021.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  2. ~ Liz ~

    I'm all in for a buttery, sugary treat with some tea! A perfect afternoon snack. Thanks for the recipe. Found you through Cherrios & Lattes. Hope you'll stop over for a visit at Quirky Vistas some time!
    Liz

    Reply

  10. MM

    Thank you for linking with See Ya In the Gumbo. These cookies/cakes look so simple and perfect. Seems dangerous that the ingredient list is so readily available!

    Reply

  14. Miz Helen

    Hi Jamie,
    Like Patsy, my Grandmother made these wonderful Tea Cakes when I was a young girl. They are a wonderful cookie and brings back so many wonderful memories for me. Hope you are having a great week and thank you so much for sharing with Full Plate Thursday.
    Come Back Soon!
    Miz Helen

    Reply

  19. Michael Ann

    Funny, I was wondering what a Southern Tea Cake tastes like and it's like you were reading my mind. I like cookies like this. My Italian Nana made a lot of cookies that are more "cake like" or for dipping in coffee. Sounds similar. Think I'll try them!

    Reply

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Love Bakes Good Cakes delivers delicious and simple family-friendly meals. Find everything from healthier recipes to over the top desserts!