By Lucretia White/reporter

SE instructor of culinary arts Sherry Sipho will give a speech Memories and Tea Cakes 12:30-1:50 p.m. Feb. 26 on SE Campus ESED 1212. Sipho will share the history of tea cakes while demonstrating how to make them.

“Can’t nobody make tea cakes like my mama,” Sipho said. “Tea cakes is not a cake and not quite a cookie either. They are not meant to be really sweet, yet are still flavorful.”

Tea cakes are a traditional African-American cookie used as comfort food for holidays and a special treat after school. The term tea cakes comes from the cookie being paired with hot tea. And she said they are relevant to TCC students’ understanding their black history.

“They shape who we are and define ideals,” Sipho said.

SE Campus Kelsey Collins student describes tea cakes to soft fluffy and tender inside, with a lightly golden bottom that is slightly chewy inside.

“It will be a great experience for students to attend,” SE library manager Doris Thomas said. “Tea cakes has a unique texture them, and it will be a good experience to taste them as well.”

Tea cakes have been passed down from generation to generation.

“Many people remember the tea cakes their grandmothers use to make, so if you don’t have the recipe then come watch Sherry Sipho,” library assistant director Tracey Minzenmayer said.