London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake is a delightful pastry that brings the essence of tea time into your home. The marriage of rich, tender cake and the distinctive flavor of Earl Grey tea creates a unique dessert experience. This cake is not only delicious; it sings with aromatic notes of bergamot, leaving a lasting impression on your palate. Ideal for gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply a cozy day at home, this cake is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

If you've been searching for something extraordinary to serve at your next event, look no further. London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake is a perfect treat that mesmerizes with each slice. The moist texture and comforting flavors are bound to evoke heartwarming memories and create new ones around the table. In this guide, you will discover why this recipe is not to be missed, along with preparation tips and tricks to ensure its success. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, the amazing taste of this cake will definitely impress!

With its luxurious combination of flavors, this London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake promises to be not only a feast for the senses but also an experience worth sharing. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe an ultimate choice for any occasion!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating your London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake doesn’t take too long. Here’s a quick breakdown of the time involved:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes

This means you can have a delicious cake ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes! These times can slightly vary based on your kitchen experience and the equipment used, but they provide a good estimate for planning.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 4 teaspoons Earl Grey tea leaves
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake is straightforward if you follow these steps closely:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Infuse Milk: In a saucepan, gently heat the milk along with the Earl Grey tea leaves until warm. Allow it to steep for about 10 minutes. Strain to remove leaves and set aside to cool.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing until incorporated.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and the infused milk to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just incorporated.
7. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until a smooth glaze forms.
11. Glaze the Cake: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to set before serving.

With these steps, you’ll effortlessly create a stunning London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake that will delight everyone!

How to Serve

Presenting the London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake properly will elevate your serving experience. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Use a Pretty Cake Stand: A simple dessert stand can add elegance and make the cake visually appealing.
2. Garnish Thoughtfully: Consider garnishing with thin slices of lemon or sprigs of lavender, enhancing its beauty and aroma.
3. Serve with Complementary Drinks: Pair the cake with Earl Grey tea, herbal infusions, or even a light sparkling drink for a refreshing combination.
4. Slice Generously: Cut slices that are generous but manageable, ensuring guests can enjoy a substantial piece without feeling overwhelmed.
5. Create a Dessert Table: If serving at an event, create a dessert spread that includes other tea treats like scones or cookies for variety and visual interest.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create an unforgettable experience, making your London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake the star of the show!

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of the ingredients, especially the Earl Grey tea leaves, can significantly enhance the flavor of your cake. Opt for high-quality tea for the best results.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature accuracy. It’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to ensure your cakes bake perfectly.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing. A warm cake may cause the glaze to melt away instead of set.
• Sift Flour: Sift your flour before measuring to avoid packing. This will yield a lighter cake.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don't hesitate to add spices or other extracts to customize the cake to your liking. A hint of cardamom or a splash of almond extract could make delightful variations.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to experiment and create your own spin on the London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake. Here are some variations to consider:

1. Lavender Earl Grey Cake: Add dried lavender to your batter for a floral twist that complements the bergamot in the tea.
2. Citrus Earl Grey Cake: Incorporate orange zest along with lemon zest for a more vibrant citrus flavor.
3. Chocolate Earl Grey Cake: Mix in cacao powder for a rich chocolate cake that still carries the Earl Grey essence.
4. Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep your London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a humid area, refrigerate it to prolong freshness.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Special Equipment

Ensure you have the following tools on hand for a hassle-free baking experience:

• Mixing Bowls: Various sizes for mixing dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: For achieving a wonderfully fluffy consistency in your batter.
• 9-inch Round Cake Pan: Essential for shaping your cake.
• Silicone Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients and scraping down the sides of your bowls.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the cake evenly post-baking, preventing sogginess at the bottom.

Conclusion

The London Fog Earl Grey Tea Cake is a truly enchanting dessert that combines the distinct flavors of Earl Grey tea and vanilla, creating a delicious experience for all who taste it. Whether you're serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with a cup of tea on a quiet afternoon, this cake is sure to impress. With simple preparation and room for numerous variations, it easily fits into any baker's repertoire. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the cozy, comforting taste of this delightful cake!