Southern Tea Cake Cookies

Southern Tea Cake Cookies are delightfully soft and buttery cookies that are perfect for any occasion. They’re not heavy or overly sweet either. I think they’re a perfect treat for a cozy afternoon tea, and if you’re not a fan of nutmeg, feel free to omit it. They will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a light and soft cookie that’s not overly sweet, you’ve come to the right place. When you make these tea cakes and pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee, you get the perfect combination.

The addition of a hint of nutmeg just sends them over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for something comforting and these dreamy cookies remind me of lazy afternoons and warm conversations. Not a fan of nutmeg? Don’t worry, they’re still delicious without it.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cooling rack

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg (if using).
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Drop Dough onto Baking Sheets: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will still be soft.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these Southern Tea Cake Cookies as a delightful and comforting treat perfect for any time of the day!