Text by Shelby Duffy • Photography Courtesy of Lana Stuart
Beloved bakes that aren’t cakes at all
While the name evokes visions of pillowy miniature cakes, perhaps similar to a petit four or a cupcake, Southern tea cakes might not be exactly what one would first expect when they hear the term “tea cake.” In fact, they are not cake at all and are closer to a cookie, with a lightly sweetened flavor, crispy outer crust, and soft center. Like many well-loved Southern recipes, tea cakes draw inspiration from past generations, but the outcome is distinctly different.
Some credit the invention of Southern tea cakes to African-American slaves. Inspired by traditional English tea cakes, plantation cooks in the 19th century made Southern tea cakes to serve as a treat at teatime or other special occasions, including weddings, funerals, and even political gatherings, earning them nicknames like Jackson Jumbles and Democratic Tea Cakes. Because illiteracy was prevalent then, most recipes were not written down and used general measurements and instructions for baking. Popular recipes for Southern tea cakes were, instead, passed down from generation to generation through word of mouth, and each family had their own prized family formula. The recipes often included plain ingredients that were commonly kept on hand in a Southern kitchen, resulting in a simple flavor profile of butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, though it was not uncommon for a household to include their own “secret ingredient” or favorite addition, like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even lemon.
In recent years, tea cakes have admittedly lost popularity as a favored dessert, but they can still be found at special gatherings across the South. Many bakers have also taken an interest in reviving this beloved treat as a way to hold onto cherished memories of loved ones.
Pamela Richard, owner of Miss Peabody’s Southern Tea Cakes, describes the inspiration for starting her company as a tribute to her family. Growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana, Pamela remembers helping her Grandma Helen in the kitchen. Among a menu of beloved Southern staples, tea cakes were one of Grandma Helen’s specialties, and as a young girl, Pamela made sure to pay close attention to everything her grandmother taught her. She was even given the distinct honor of “official batter taster” whenever her grandmother made tea cakes. Coming from a long line of cooks, Pamela regards her company as a tie to her roots. “It’s how I keep those I’ve loved and lost close to me,” she says.
Along with the slightly sweet and rich vanilla taste of the classic tea cake, Miss Peabody’s also offers a variety of Southern-inspired flavors—including Candied Yam, Hazelnut Chocolate, Banana Foster, and Lemon Curd— all of which pair wonderfully with a cup of tea. Incorporating a nontraditional twist on an old favorite is Pamela’s way of forming multi-generational ties with customers, aligning with the company’s motto, “Bringing back memories while making new ones.” All products are made to order using fresh ingredients, and all tea cakes and pies are preservative free. Gluten-free options are available. For more information or to place your own order, visit misspeabodys.com.
