Few treats bring back fond Southern memories quite like Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes. These pillowy, cake-like cookies are a tradition passed down through generations, charming everyone with their simple ingredient list and an irresistible, not-too-sweet flavor. If you’re yearning for a comforting homemade dessert, bursting with nostalgia and gentle sweetness, this is a recipe you’ll want to bake again and again.

Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes is how they transform humble pantry staples into pure comfort. Each ingredient has a role to play, from lending richness and softness to creating beautifully tender cookies that melt in your mouth.

Unsalted butter: Softened butter is the heart of the tea cake’s tender crumb, adding rich flavor and irresistible texture.
Granulated sugar: Brings just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the simple flavors.
Large eggs: Bind the dough and add structure, ensuring every tea cake bakes up soft but sturdy enough to hold its shape.
Vanilla extract: Gives the cookies their iconic warm, aromatic depth—don’t skip it!
Lemon zest (optional): For a bright, subtle note that lifts the flavor, but the classic version is lovely without it.
All-purpose flour: Forms the backbone of the dough, creating the perfect soft chew.
Baking soda: Just enough to give the cookies a gentle lift and keep them from being too dense.
Salt: Balances out all the sweetness and intensifies the other flavors.
Buttermilk: The not-so-secret Southern touch, adding moisture and a hint of tang for true old-fashioned authenticity.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Then, in a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This important step introduces air, giving your Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes their signature soft bite.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Next, stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest if you’re using it. These ingredients infuse the dough with their warm aroma and delicate brightness.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Pre-mixing guarantees these leavenings get evenly distributed, so the cookies rise perfectly every time.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir just until a soft dough forms—don’t overmix, or your tea cakes may turn out tough instead of tender.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out to a 1/4-inch thickness. Use a 2–3 inch round cutter or even the rim of a glass to stamp out your tea cakes. Place them onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes for 10–12 minutes, until the edges turn a gentle golden color and the centers are set. Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. You’ll have to exercise some willpower here—the aroma is pure nostalgia!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes

Garnishes

For a classic presentation, you can dust your tea cakes with powdered sugar or drizzle them with a simple vanilla glaze. A sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top adds a pretty pop of color and flavor if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

These delightful cookies are perfect alongside a cup of hot tea, freshly brewed coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. They also pair beautifully with a fruit compote or a handful of berries for a summery touch.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them high on a vintage cake stand at your next brunch, or wrap a few in wax paper for a thoughtful homemade gift. For special occasions, sandwich two tea cakes with lemon curd or jam for a playful twist on tradition!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, your Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to five days, making them ideal for snacking throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze both the baked cookies and unbaked dough rounds. To freeze the dough, cut out the rounds and arrange them on a sheet tray, freeze solid, then store in a freezer bag for up to three months. Baked cookies can be frozen the same way—just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you love a warm tea cake, pop a cookie in the microwave for five to ten seconds, or re-crisp briefly in a low oven. This brings back that fresh-from-the-oven tenderness without drying them out.

FAQs

Do Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes taste like sugar cookies?

While they look similar, tea cakes are softer and less sweet than typical sugar cookies, offering a more tender crumb and a unique, buttery flavor that stands out all on its own.

Can I make these without buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. It’s not exactly the same, but your tea cakes will still taste wonderful!

Why is my dough sticky?

Tea cake dough can be a little sticky—this is what gives the cookies their tender texture. Flour your work surface and rolling pin well, but resist the urge to add too much extra flour to the dough itself.

Can I add spices or other flavors?

Absolutely! A hint of nutmeg, a touch of almond extract, or even swapping vanilla for a citrus extract can give your Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes a fun twist without losing their classic charm.

How do I know when my tea cakes are done?

Look for very pale golden edges and a set—but still soft—center. They will continue to cook a bit on the baking sheet as they cool, so don’t wait for them to turn brown in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Baking a batch of Old-Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes is like opening a window straight into the heart of Southern hospitality. Warm, homey, and oh-so-delicious, these cookies deserve a spot in every family’s baking tradition. Give them a try—the taste and the memories are truly special.

Kimberly