Are you looking for a delicious and easy dessert recipe that's both sophisticated and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This Earl Grey cake recipe delivers a wonderfully aromatic and moist cake, perfect for afternoon tea, a birthday celebration, or any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance. This homemade recipe is surprisingly quick and easy, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups (210g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 4 Earl Grey tea bags
- ½ cup (120ml) boiling water
Instructions:
Step 1: Brewing the Tea
Begin by steeping the Earl Grey tea bags in boiling water. Let them steep for at least 5 minutes to extract maximum flavor. Remove the tea bags, squeezing gently to release any remaining liquid. Set aside to cool slightly. This infused tea will be the secret ingredient that elevates this cake to new heights.
Step 2: Preparing the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for a light and fluffy cake.
Step 3: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, contributing to a tender crumb.
Step 4: Adding the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Then, alternately add the dry ingredients and the buttermilk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 5: Incorporating the Tea
Gently fold in the cooled Earl Grey tea until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
Step 6: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. This is a crucial step to ensure the cake is perfectly baked.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or create a delicious glaze for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips for the Best Earl Grey Cake:
- Use good quality Earl Grey tea for the best flavor.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
- Check the cake for doneness around 30 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting or glazing.
Variations:
- Add a layer of lemon curd for extra zing.
- Incorporate chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the batter.
- Drizzle with a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and Earl Grey tea.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. For a precise calculation, utilize an online nutritional calculator with your exact ingredient measurements. Generally, Earl Grey cake is a moderate source of carbohydrates and fat.
This Earl Grey cake recipe is a delightful addition to any occasion, offering a unique flavor profile and a satisfyingly moist texture. Its ease of preparation makes it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious and aromatic treat. Enjoy!