When you're ready for a tea or coffee break, have these tea cakes ready. You won't be able to forget their soft centers and buttery vanilla flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1-1/2 cups sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture (the dough will be soft).
2. Drop by tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake until the edges are golden brown, 7-8 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool.