Introduction
Indulge in the aromatic delight of an Earl Grey Tea Cake, a sublime treat that marries the floral notes of Earl Grey tea with the buttery richness of a classic cake. This recipe promises a sophisticated fusion of flavors, perfect for enhancing your afternoon tea rituals or serving as a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Who Will Love This Recipe?
For tea enthusiasts seeking a culinary adventure, this Earl Grey Tea Cake is an exquisite choice. Its harmonious blend of tea-infused batter and sweet glaze will captivate the palates of both avid bakers and casual home cooks looking to elevate their dessert repertoire.
Why It’s Great
- Unique Flavor Profile: The infusion of Earl Grey tea adds a distinctive floral and citrusy note to the cake, setting it apart from traditional desserts.
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizing everyday pantry staples combined with the fragrant Earl Grey tea leaves creates a delightful and accessible treat.
- Versatility: This cake is perfect for various occasions, whether as an elegant dessert for a dinner party or a comforting accompaniment to your morning tea.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon Earl Grey tea leaves, finely ground
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly brewed Earl Grey tea
Directions
Making the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- Add the finely ground Earl Grey tea leaves to the batter and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and freshly brewed Earl Grey tea until smooth.
- Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Spatula
- Wire rack
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Earl Grey Tea Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
Food Pairings
Pair a slice of this delicate Earl Grey Tea Cake with a cup of freshly brewed Earl Grey tea or a light-bodied white tea. For an indulgent experience, serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lavender petals.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
For a citrusy twist, add a tablespoon of freshly grated lemon zest to the batter. Additionally, substitute part of the milk with plain yogurt for a moist and tangy variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use tea bags instead of loose leaf tea?
Yes, you can substitute 2-3 Earl Grey tea bags for the loose leaf tea in this recipe. Simply open the tea bags and use the loose tea inside.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Certainly! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio for a gluten-free version of the Earl Grey Tea Cake.
Conclusion
Embrace the sophisticated flavors of Earl Grey tea with this delightful cake that’s sure to enchant your taste buds. Share this recipe with friends and family to elevate their tea time experience, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more exquisite culinary adventures.