old fashioned southern tea cakes recipe
The Best old fashioned southern tea cakes recipe
Old fashioned southern tea cakes have been a staple in our household for as long as I can remember. I love these sweet treats because they’re a perfect blend of crumbly texture and sweet flavor. The key to making these tea cakes is to use real butter and buttermilk, which gives them a rich and creamy taste.
My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, especially when it comes to mixing and kneading the dough. They get so excited when they see the finished product, and it’s always a treat for them to take a bite. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner in the kitchen.
I’ve made these tea cakes countless times, and each time they turn out perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a special treat or just a quick snack, old fashioned southern tea cakes are always a good idea. My family loves them so much that we often have them on hand for a quick breakfast or as an after-school snack.
I’ve even started serving them at our family gatherings, and everyone always asks for the recipe. There’s something about the combination of sugar, butter, and buttermilk that just makes these tea cakes irresistible. When I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed, there’s nothing like stepping into the kitchen and whipping up a batch of these delicious treats.
It’s amazing how something so simple can bring so much joy to our family. One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s been passed down through generations of Southern cooks. The original recipe calls for lard or vegetable shortening, but I prefer using real butter for an extra layer of flavor.
My grandmother used to make these tea cakes all the time when I was growing up, and now it’s become a tradition in our household too.

Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
These classic Southern tea cakes are soft, buttery, and lightly sweetened, reminiscent of a simpler time. They are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, and their subtle vanilla flavor makes them a favorite for all ages.
🥘Ingredients
For the Tea Cakes
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes Works
I love serving old fashioned southern tea cakes at our family gatherings because they’re always a hit with both kids and adults alike. One of my favorite ways to serve them is as part of a Southern-style brunch spread, alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.
You can also serve them as an after-school snack or as part of a quick breakfast on-the-go. To make storage easier, consider freezing your leftover tea cakes in individual portions or zip-top bags so you can thaw only what you need later.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Southern Tea Cakes
Q: What type of flour should I use for this recipe?
A: For this old fashioned southern tea cake recipe, you’ll want to use all-purpose flour that’s been sifted before measuring out the ingredients.
Q: Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?
A: While you can use regular milk as a substitute in an emergency situation, keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile of your tea cakes.
Q: How do I store leftover tea cakes?
A: You can store leftover tea cakes at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I add any mix-ins to my tea cakes?
A: Yes! Some popular mix-ins include chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, dried cranberries or cherries, or even chocolate chips.
Q: Why do my tea cakes not rise properly?
A: If your tea cakes aren’t rising properly, it might be due to using cold buttermilk or not letting the dough rest long enough before rolling out.