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Southern tea cakes have a rich history. They date back to the early 1800s. These cakes show how families gathered, shared, and celebrated. They are a symbol of Southern hospitality. When you serve tea cakes, you share warmth and comfort.

The Best Recipe for Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes

Discover the charm of Southern hospitality with the best recipe for old-fashioned Southern tea cakes! Dive into the history and cultural significance of these delightful treats while learning key baking tips and variations to make them uniquely yours. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these sweet cakes will warm your heart and home. Click through to explore this easy-to-follow recipe and start your baking adventure today!
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Ingredients
  

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon nutmeg

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

½ cup buttermilk

1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)

1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or grease them lightly.

    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

      In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

        Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

          Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Pour in the buttermilk and mix until the dough is smooth and well incorporated.

            Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one.

              Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers of the cookies may look slightly soft, but they will firm up as they cool.

                Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  (Optional) For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and enough milk to achieve a drizzle consistency. Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the glaze over them.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

                      - Presentation Tips: Arrange the tea cakes on a decorative platter. Dust with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or serve them alongside a pot of hot tea for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider adding some fresh fruit, such as berries, on the side for a pop of color.