I’ve been making Southern-style old-fashioned tea cakes for years, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends. These tender, sweet treats are a staple of Southern baking, and I’m excited to share my favorite recipe with you.
The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make – just mix together some basic ingredients, shape the dough into little cakes, and bake until golden brown. The result is a moist, fluffy cake that’s perfect for snacking on the go or serving at a family gathering.
My kids love helping me mix the batter and shape the cakes into little balls – it’s a fun activity that teaches them about measuring and following directions in the kitchen. And when we serve these tea cakes at our family gatherings, everyone raves about how delicious they are.
I’ve even had guests request the recipe so they can make them at home. The secret to these tea cakes is using buttermilk instead of regular milk – it gives them a tangy flavor and a tender crumb that’s just irresistible.
I also like to add in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture and flavor. And let’s not forget the icing – a simple powdered sugar glaze is all you need to take these tea cakes from good to great.
I like to serve them at our holiday gatherings, but they’re also perfect for everyday snacks or as a special treat for your kids’ lunchboxes.
Southern Old Fashioned Tea Cakes
4.7 from 1334 votes
A classic Southern treat perfect for afternoon tea or a sweet snack. These tea cakes are soft, buttery, and dusted with powdered sugar.
Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For a lemon twist, add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter. Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a spiced variation.
Watch Video Of How Southern Old Fashioned Tea Cakes Works
These Southern-style old-fashioned tea cakes are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, as a special treat for your kids’ lunchboxes, or just because. They’re also incredibly easy to make ahead of time and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat frozen tea cakes, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or microwave them until warm. And if you want to get fancy, try drizzling with icing made from powdered sugar glaze.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Old Fashioned Tea Cakes
What is the origin of the Old Fashioned Tea Cake?
The Old Fashioned Tea Cake is a classic Southern recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. It originated in the American South, where it was a popular treat to accompany afternoon tea. The recipe has evolved over time, but it remains a staple in many Southern households today.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
The key ingredients for an Old Fashioned Tea Cake include flour, sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, and baking powder. These simple ingredients come together to create a moist and tender cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
What is the key technique for making this cake?
The key technique for making an Old Fashioned Tea Cake involves creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which helps to create a light and airy texture. After creaming the butter and sugar, the eggs are added one at a time, followed by the dry ingredients and vanilla extract.
Can this recipe be made healthier?
While the Old Fashioned Tea Cake is already a healthier option compared to store-bought pastries, there are a few ways to make it even healthier. You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients. You can also reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, using applesauce or mashed bananas instead of butter can add moisture and reduce the fat content.
How should the cake be stored?
The cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you need to store it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can this cake be made in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. If you plan to serve it within a few days, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
This Mexican creamed corn combines sweet corn with a creamy, spicy sauce made from crema, cotija cheese, and chili powder. It is a quick side dish that pairs we…
A traditional Austrian pastry featuring a flaky, paper-thin dough wrapped around a spiced apple filling. This recipe yields a beautifully golden strudel with a …
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender pan seared beef steak topped with a rich mushroom sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner that feels special yet eas…
A creamy and delicious classic egg salad recipe that’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or lettuce wraps. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized wit…