Easy and Elegant Earl Grey Tea Cake Recipe

Discover the delightful fusion of tradition and modern flavor in this Earl Grey Tea Cake Loaf, a recipe that marries the elegance of English tea time with the vibrant zest of fresh citrus.

This recipe is straightforward, using pantry staples, yet the results are anything but ordinary. The moist crumb, the citrusy zing, and the rich, tea-infused aroma make this cake a must-try for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life!

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just someone looking to try something new, my Earl Grey Cake Recipe offers a delightful experience that’s sure to impress both in flavor and presentation.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Aromatic and Inviting: The delightful aroma of Earl Grey and fresh citrus fills your kitchen, making the baking experience as enjoyable as the eating.
• Perfect Moisture: The tea infusion and citrus syrup ensure the cake is moist and flavorful, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Occasion Cake: Whether for a special tea party, a casual afternoon treat, or a gift, this cake is perfect for any occasion.
• Great for Tea Lovers: This recipe is a perfect way to enjoy your favorite tea in a new form, making it an ideal treat for tea enthusiasts.

How to Make Earl Grey Tea Cake

The origin of this recipe is rooted in the classic British love affair with Earl Grey tea, a blend known for its distinctive bergamot aroma and delicate taste. The addition of zesty orange and lemon brings a refreshing twist, enhancing the tea’s floral notes while adding a burst of sunshine to every bite.

This cake is not only fragrant and moist but also balanced with a perfect sweetness, thanks to the syrup made with honey, sugar, and freshly squeezed citrus juices.

What makes this Earl Grey Tea Cake truly special is its versatility. It’s the perfect centerpiece for an elegant afternoon tea, a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply a comforting treat to enjoy with a cup of your favorite brew.

Ingredients

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 orange, zested
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1 cup hot, strong Earl Grey tea
• 2 medium eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups self-raising flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• Butter, for greasing

For the Syrup:

• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ¼ cup hot water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons orange juice

Instructions for Making the Earl Grey Tea Cake

Step 1: Infuse the Citrus Zests with Earl Grey Tea

In a large mixing bowl, combine the zest of one orange and one lemon. The fresh citrus zest is key to infusing the cake with vibrant flavors.

Pour the hot, strong Earl Grey tea over the zests. Immediately cover the bowl with a lid or a piece of plastic wrap to trap the steam, ensuring that the tea fully absorbs the citrus oils. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for at least 20 minutes.

This step allows the flavors to meld together, creating a fragrant base for your cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (320°F for fan ovens). While the oven heats, grease a 2lb loaf tin with butter and line it with parchment paper, ensuring that the paper extends slightly over the edges for easy removal later.

After the zest and tea mixture has infused, it’s time to build your batter. Add 1 cup of brown sugar to the infused tea mixture, stirring until fully dissolved. Next, add 2 lightly beaten medium eggs, mixing thoroughly until combined.

Gradually sift 2 cups of self-raising flour into the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place the tin in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the cake is firm to the touch and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the cake as it approaches the 1-hour mark.

Step 3: Make the Citrus Syrup

While your cake is baking, prepare the citrus syrup that will give your loaf its deliciously moist texture and tangy flavor.

In a small saucepan, combine 3 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of honey, ¼ cup of hot water, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of orange juice.

Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved, then bring it to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken. Once done, set the syrup aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes. During this time, the cake will firm up, making it easier to handle.

While the cake is still warm, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the top. This step is crucial as it allows the syrup to penetrate deep into the cake, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor.

Next, slowly brush the syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in between applications. You might need to repeat this process several times to use up all the syrup.

Step 5: Cool, Slice, and Serve

After glazing, carefully lift the cake out of the tin using the parchment paper overhang and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cake has cooled, slice it into thick pieces and serve.

This cake is perfect on its own or paired with a cup of Earl Grey tea!

You can also try serving it with one of these tea drinks:

• Earl Grey Lavender Latte
• Lychee Sweet Tea
• Earl Grey Vanilla Ice Cream Shake

Storage Instructions

For storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cake will keep well for up to five days, and the flavors will continue to develop, making it taste even better after a day or two.