5. Bake the Cookies
- Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1–2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Decorate (Optional)
- Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
- Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice.
- Add sprinkles or colored sugar before baking for a festive touch.
Serving Suggestions
- With Tea or Coffee: Perfect for an afternoon tea party or paired with your morning coffee.
- For Holidays: Decorate with red and green sprinkles for Christmas or pastel colors for Easter.
- As Gifts: Package in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts.
- At Gatherings: Serve alongside other Southern classics like pound cake, biscuits, or fruit cobblers.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butter, eggs, and vanilla extract make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies should remain pale and soft—overbaking will make them dry.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to roll, chill it briefly to make handling easier.
- Freeze for Later: Roll and cut the dough, then freeze the shapes on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
Final Thoughts
These Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes are more than just cookies—they’re a connection to tradition, family, and Southern hospitality. With their buttery richness, subtle sweetness, and endless customization options, they’re a treat that everyone can enjoy.
So grab your rolling pin, dust off your cookie cutters, and bake up a batch of these tender, nostalgic delights. One bite of these melt-in-your-mouth cookies, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy Southern kitchen, where love and warmth are baked into every bite! 🍪