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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.

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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

Other recipes you may enjoy

Southern tea cakes closeup view
4.50 from 26 votes
Servings: 45 cookies

Southern Tea Cakes

By Jamie Sherman
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.
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 12 minutes
Total: 27 minutes

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Equipment

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup butter, at room temperature, 2 sticks
  • 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons buttermilk
  • additional granulated sugar, optional

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a baking sheet and set it aside.
  • 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.
  • Stir together flour, baking soda and salt in a separate mixing bowl. Add to beaten mixture alternately with buttermilk.
  • Drop by rounded teaspoons onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with sugar, if desired.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned on the edges.
  • 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.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cake, Calories: 92kcal, Carbohydrates: 12g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Trans Fat: 0.2g, Cholesterol: 19mg, Sodium: 74mg, Potassium: 15mg, Fiber: 0.2g, Sugar: 6g, Vitamin A: 140IU, Calcium: 5mg, Iron: 0.4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Like this? Leave a comment below!

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

Jamie

Jamie Sherman founded Love Bakes Good Cakes in February 2012. She is a self-taught home cook passionate about sharing easy, delicious, and family-friendly recipes. From comforting classics to irresistible desserts, I believe homemade food brings people together. Join me on my journey of creating and sharing meals that bring joy to every table!

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4.50 from 26 votes (26 ratings without comment)

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34 Comments

  1. Ann Smyers says:

    My granny used to make these in cake pans and then make a dried apple filling to go between them. She called it an apple stack cake.

  2. Debra Kapellakis says:

    Give me Southern everytime. 🙂

  3. Bree says:

    I made these this morning and they're absolutely delicious! Thank your for sharing the recipe.

  4. Britni says:

    These look delicious! And they are super cute too! Love the picture 🙂 I would love if you shared this at my Throwback Thursday party! Hope to see you there! Thanks for sharing 🙂 http://www.hubbymademe.com/throwback-thursday-no-4/

  5. Not Your Ordinary Agent says:

    I like these!!! Yum. Who doesn't love a nice cookie with their tea? 🙂 Thanks for linking to Foodtastic Friday!

  6. The Mandatory Mooch says:

    Thank you so much for linking up to Tasty Thursdays last week. Hope to see you again this week!!
    Nichi – The Mandatory Mooch

  7. Claiming Our Space says:

    These look delicious. Any excuse to sit and have a cup of tea and a cookie is good by me. Thanks for sharing on tout It Tuesday! Hope to see you tomorrow.

  8. Dorothy @ Crazy for Crust says:

    Those sound SO good! I love a cakey cookie. 🙂

  9. Walking on Sunshine... says:

    Thanks again sharing on Foodie Friends Friday! Don't forget to come back on Sunday to VOTE!