COOKIES
Southern Tea Cake Cookies
Dive into the heartwarming world of Southern cuisine with this simple yet delightful Southern Tea Cake Cookies recipe. These cookies are more than just a treat; they're a sweet portal to cherished memories and timeless flavors.
Why These Cookies Are Special
- Nostalgic Flavors: Each cookie captures the essence of the South with its subtle sweetness and hints of nutmeg.
- Versatile Treats: Perfect for tea time, holidays, or as a comforting snack.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, these cookies are easy to whip up on any occasion.
Ingredients List
- All-purpose flour: 1 and a half cups
- Baking soda: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Ground nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter, softened: 1 stick (1/2 cup)
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup
- Large egg, at room temperature: 1
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with a hand mixer until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla until fully incorporated.
Chill and Shape
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Form Cookies: Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough, roll them into balls, and place them 1-2 inches apart on the prepared sheet.
Bake and Cool
- Flatten the Dough: Gently press each dough ball with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake: Cook in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Tea Cake Cookies
- Consistency: For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to measure out the dough.
- Flavor Variants: Experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough for a different twist.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and soft.
These Southern Tea Cake Cookies are more than just a simple dessert; they are a cherished recipe that brings warmth and joy with each bite. They're perfect for sharing with friends and family or savoring alone with a cup of tea.