Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Introducing a timeless treat straight from the heart of the South, these Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a delightful blend of nostalgia and sweetness. With a hint of nutmeg and a touch of vanilla, each bite transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and comfort.

These cookies boast a tender crumb and a golden-brown edge, making them the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or a glass of cold milk. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or served at a gathering of friends and family, these cookies are sure to evoke fond memories and satisfy any sweet tooth.

So, gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in a taste of Southern tradition with every delicious bite.

Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp nutmeg (freshly ground for best flavor)

1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg, at room temperature

2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a large bowl mix together the flour, salt, baking soda along with nutmeg.

Beat the butter and sugar in another large bowl or stand mixer bowl until it becomes light and fluffy.

Incorporate the egg and vanilla into the mixture until they are well combined.

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture gently blending them together.

Chill the dough. Place the dough, in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let it cool.

Set your temperature to 325˚F (165˚C).

Shape your cookies. Form 12 dough balls and slightly flatten them with your hands.

Place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes or until their edges turn golden brown.

Allow cookies to cool before enjoying them. Let your cookies cool on a wire rack. Take delight in savoring these treats of Southern comfort!

Notes:

Flavorful Nutmeg: Freshly ground nutmeg adds a delightful flavor to these cookies, enhancing their Southern charm.

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing with sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.

Chilling the Dough: Cooling the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes helps it firm up, making it easier to shape into cookies and preventing excessive spreading during baking.

Baking Temperature: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) for perfectly baked cookies with golden edges.

Cookie Shaping: Shape the dough into 12 balls and gently flatten them before placing them on the baking sheet. This ensures uniform cookies and even baking.

Gluten-Free Option: You can easily make gluten-free cookies by substituting all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Adjustments in texture may occur, but the delicious essence remains intact.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 12 cookies | SERVING SIZE: 1 cookie

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a different type of flour?

The recipe is specifically designed for all-purpose flour.

While you can experiment with other flours like whole wheat or gluten-free, it might alter the texture and taste of the cookies.

Can I use pre-ground nutmeg instead of freshly ground?

Freshly ground nutmeg provides optimal flavor, but pre-ground nutmeg can be used as a substitute. Just note that the flavor might be slightly different.

What can I do if my butter isn’t at room temperature?

If your butter isn’t at room temperature, you can soften it in the microwave at a low power setting for short intervals, or you can grate the butter using a cheese grater to expedite the softening process.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter is traditional in baking and contributes to the flavor and texture, you can use margarine as a substitute.

Just keep in mind that the taste and texture of the cookies might differ slightly.

Can I make the dough in advance and chill it for longer than 30 minutes?

Yes, you can chill the dough for longer than 30 minutes if needed.

However, keep in mind that if the dough gets too firm, it might be harder to shape into cookies.

How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Chilling the dough helps prevent excessive spreading.

Additionally, ensuring the butter is not too soft and using proper measurement techniques for the flour can help control spreading.

What’s the purpose of chilling the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough helps solidify the fat in the dough (butter), which results in cookies that hold their shape better during baking and have a more desirable texture.

Can I use a different temperature for baking if my oven’s temperature settings vary?

If your oven’s temperature settings differ, it’s recommended to use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Baking at a higher or lower temperature may affect the cookies’ texture and appearance.

What is the yield of this recipe?

This recipe yields approximately 12 cookies, based on forming 12 dough balls.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for future baking.

Portion the dough into individual cookie-sized portions, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.

Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

While the recipe calls for unsalted butter, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand.

Just be mindful of the additional salt content and consider reducing the added salt slightly.

Can I substitute the granulated sugar with a different sweetener?

Granulated sugar provides the desired texture and sweetness for these cookies.

Substituting with alternative sweeteners may impact the texture and taste.

Can I use a cookie scoop for portioning the dough?

Yes, using a cookie scoop can help ensure consistent portion sizes and shape.

Portion the dough and slightly flatten the balls with your hands before placing them on the baking sheet.

What should the texture of the dough be after mixing?

The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, you can add a teaspoon of milk or water at a time until the desired texture is achieved.

Can I refrigerate the dough for longer than 30 minutes?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for longer than 30 minutes if needed. The chilling time helps enhance flavor and control spreading during baking.

Can I use a different type of extract instead of vanilla?

Yes, you can experiment with different extracts like almond or citrus, but be aware that it will alter the flavor profile of the cookies.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, or other mix-ins to customize the cookies to your liking.

What’s the best way to store the baked cookies?

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

You can also freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for longer storage.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges of the cookies should be golden brown, and the centers should be set but still slightly soft.

Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on them as they bake.