Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Name: Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; 1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature); ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Isabella

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Southern Tea Cake Cookies are a soft, buttery treat that evoke a sense of nostalgia with every bite. Infused with a delicate hint of vanilla, these cookies are perfect for serving with afternoon tea or enjoying as a simple, homemade snack. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a delightful batch of cookies that are sure to bring comfort to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon baking soda

1 stick unsalted butter (room temperature)

¾ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg (room temperature)

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Directions:

Prepare Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In the bowl of a mixer, beat the room-temperature butter and sugar on high speed for 4-5 minutes until the mixture becomes fluffy and smooth.

Add Egg and Vanilla:

Reduce the mixer speed to medium. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients:

Lower the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the dry flour mixture in three separate intervals, mixing well after each addition until a smooth dough forms.

Chill Dough:

Transfer the cookie dough into a Ziploc bag or wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the dough to firm up.

Preheat Oven:

Once the dough is firm, preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Shape Cookies:

Using a tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll it into balls. Gently press the center of each ball with your thumb to flatten slightly. Place the dough balls on the prepared cookie sheet, leaving about 1 ½ inches of space between each one.

Bake:

Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Be careful not to overbake to maintain the soft texture.

Cool and Serve:

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, serve the cookies or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Serving Tips:

Pairing with Beverages: Serve these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Their buttery flavor complements both perfectly, making for an inviting afternoon treat.

Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or tiered stand for a charming presentation, especially if serving at a gathering or tea party.

Garnish: For a festive touch, dust the cookies with powdered sugar or serve with a side of fresh fruit or whipped cream.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help maintain their soft texture.

Refrigeration: If you live in a humid environment, you can refrigerate the cookies to prolong freshness. Just ensure they are sealed well to avoid absorbing odors.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven.

Dough Storage: If you want to make cookies in batches, the dough can also be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking.

FAQs:

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Just ensure it contains a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to maintain the cookies’ texture.

How can I make these cookies more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also incorporate lemon or almond extract for a different twist, or mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can chill it for a longer period, or gradually add a little more flour (a tablespoon at a time) until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I make these cookies in advance for an event?

Absolutely! These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored as instructed. They also freeze well, so you can prepare them weeks in advance and thaw them just before your event for the freshest taste.

Conclusion:

These Southern Tea Cake Cookies are the perfect balance of buttery richness and vanilla flavor, making them a timeless treat. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or sharing them with friends, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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