As I stood by the oven, the delicate aroma of bergamot wafted through my kitchen, transporting me to a quaint café nestled in the English countryside. This Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake with Lavender Buttercream Delight is where comfort meets elegance, making it an irresistible choice for afternoon tea or special gatherings. Not only is it surprisingly easy to whip up, but with options for gluten-free flour and alternative sweeteners, everyone can indulge without worry. The warm, fluffy cake layered with silky lavender buttercream offers a delightful floral twist that’s sure to impress your guests and elevate your dessert game. Ready to turn your kitchen into a little slice of Britain?
Why Is This Cake So Special?
Memorable Experience: The Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake is a sensory delight that will transport you to a charming café with its unique bergamot flavor.
Flexible Options: Enjoy it gluten-free or experiment with different sweeteners, making it accessible for various dietary preferences.
Easy to Master: This recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike, allowing anyone to create a stunning dessert effortlessly.
Gorgeous Presentation: With its light lavender buttercream, it’s not just a cake—it’s a showstopper for any gathering, be it a garden party or a cozy afternoon tea.
Store and Share: You can easily freeze leftovers, so there’s always a piece ready to brighten someone’s day, just like those delightful Strawberry Pecan Vinaigrette salads make fresh meals easy!
Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and richness; use softened butter for easy creaming.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness; ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates the cake structure; for a gluten-free version, try gluten-free flour instead.
• Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps the cake rise; make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Earl Grey Tea Bags – Infuses the cake with flavor when steeped in milk; substituting with different herbal teas can offer unique flavors.
• Milk – Adds moisture; brew with tea for extra flavor.
For the Lavender Buttercream
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting; adjust the amount for desired sweetness.
• Culinary Lavender – Essential for the floral buttercream flavor; ensure it’s culinary grade for safety.
• Heavy Cream – Makes the buttercream fluffy and easy to spread.
Embrace the delightful essence of the Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake with Lavender Buttercream Delight as you gather these enchanting ingredients!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake with Lavender Buttercream Delight
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, grease two round 9-inch cake pans with butter or cooking spray, ensuring an even release of the Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake once baked. Set the pans aside and let the anticipation build as you gather the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Brew the Tea
In a small saucepan, gently heat 1 cup of milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Add the Earl Grey tea bags, allowing them to steep for about 10 minutes to release their fragrant flavors. Remove the tea bags and let the milk cool slightly, filling your kitchen with a delightful bergamot aroma in the process.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender crumb in your Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake, so take your time to ensure proper creaming.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add 3 large eggs to the mixture, one at a time. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated before adding the next egg. This will help emulsify the ingredients and create a rich batter that holds the unique flavors of the Earl Grey tea.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the cooled tea-infused milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen your Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula for a beautiful appearance. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on them; the cakes should spring back when lightly pressed.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the cakes out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to allow the structure of the Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake to set properly before adding the luscious lavender buttercream.
Step 8: Prepare the Lavender Buttercream
While the cakes cool, it’s time to make the buttercream. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 4 cups of powdered sugar until fluffy. Gradually add in 2 tablespoons of culinary lavender and 2-4 tablespoons of heavy cream, mixing until the buttercream is smooth and spreadable. Taste and adjust the sweetness as desired for a delightful finishing touch.
Step 9: Frost the Cakes
Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of lavender buttercream on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and continue to frost the top and sides of the entire Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake. Create elegant swirls or smooth out for a perfectly polished look, ready to impress at your next gathering.
Expert Tips for Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake
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Cool Before Frosting: Always let your Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake cool completely before applying the lavender buttercream. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
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Measure Flour Properly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to prevent a dense cake.
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Tea Strength Matters: Adjust the strength of the Earl Grey tea by steeping it longer for a bolder flavor in your cake. This can enhance the overall taste without overpowering the lavender.
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature, as this helps create a light and fluffy batter—essential for that tender crumb everyone loves.
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Taste Test Buttercream: Don’t forget to taste the lavender buttercream as you mix! Adjust the sweetness with powdered sugar to suit your personal preference for the finishing touch.
What to Serve with Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake with Lavender Buttercream Delight
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this delightful cake with complementary flavors and textures for a well-rounded afternoon tea.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries balances the sweetness of the cake, enhancing the floral notes of lavender.
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Creamy Devonshire Clotted Cream: A traditional accompaniment that adds rich creaminess, making each bite decadently smooth.
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Earl Grey Infused Ice Cream: A cool treat that echoes the cake’s flavor, providing a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
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Lemon Curd: The bright, citrusy tang cuts through the cake’s sweetness, offering a refreshing burst of flavor that invigorates the palate.
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Gentle Chamomile Tea: A soothing herbal tea that complements the floral lavender in the buttercream; perfect for a relaxing afternoon moment.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds natural sweetness and enhances the cake’s floral essence; perfect for those who enjoy a touch of elegance in their dessert.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a different texture and flavor profile, making for a fun contrast while still keeping the theme delightful.
Imagine siping a cup of tea alongside a slice of cake, and you have the recipe for a charming gathering!
Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake Variations
Feel free to explore and customize this recipe to make it your own, adding layers of flavor and fun to your baking experience!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour for a gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
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Healthier Sweetener: Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a lower-glycemic option that adds a unique flavor.
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Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist; it brightens the overall taste.
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Herbal Twist: Instead of Earl Grey, experiment with chamomile or rooibos tea for a delightful change in flavor that still feels elegant.
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Texture Variation: Incorporate some finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, into the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the cake’s softness.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the lavender buttercream for a luscious contrast that takes it to another level.
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Fruit Addition: Fold in some fresh blueberries or raspberries just before baking. Their tartness pairs beautifully with the floral notes.
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Cream Cheese Buttercream: Try replacing half of the butter in the frosting with cream cheese for a tangy, sweet buttercream that perfectly balances the sweetness.
By exploring these variations, you’ll not only make the Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake with Lavender Buttercream Delight uniquely yours but also elevate it to new flavor heights. And while you’re at it, why not whip up a lovely side of Spicy Tuna Sushi Bowl or indulge in a stunning dessert like Black Velvet Cupcakes? The possibilities are endless!
Storage Tips for Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Fridge: If you have leftover cake, refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Before serving, let it come to room temperature to enhance the Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake’s delicious flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, slices can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the fridge. You can gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds if desired, but be careful not to overheat!
Make Ahead Options
These Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake with Lavender Buttercream Delight are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance, allowing them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The lavender buttercream can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove the cake layers from the fridge, let them come to room temperature, and then frost with the buttercream. This method ensures that your cake remains just as delicious and moist as when freshly baked, making it a stress-free option for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake with Lavender Buttercream Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the right Earl Grey tea for this cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor infusion, select high-quality Earl Grey tea bags that list bergamot as an ingredient. The fragrance and taste of the bergamot oil are crucial to creating that authentic taste in your Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using loose-leaf tea and steep it in the milk for a more robust flavor.
What is the best way to store leftover Earl Grey Tea Cake?
To keep your Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to store it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.
Can I freeze slices of the cake? If yes, how?
Yes, you can freeze slices of your Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake! Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them briefly in the microwave if desired.
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
Very often, a cake sinking is due to underbaking or having too much liquid in the batter. To prevent this, make sure to follow the baking times closely and perform the toothpick test—insert a toothpick into the center of the cake, and it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal leavening.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum, which helps provide structure and texture similar to traditional flour. I often recommend brands that are specifically designed for baking as they yield the best results!
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider for my guests?
It’s always considerate to check if your guests have any allergies or dietary restrictions. This Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake can easily be made dairy-free by using a dairy alternative for milk and butter. Moreover, using coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar can make it suitable for those looking to lower their glycemic intake.
Amazing Earl Grey Tea Cake with Lavender Buttercream Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round 9-inch cake pans.
- Heat 1 cup of milk gently in a saucepan, add Earl Grey tea bags, and steep for about 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, alternating with the cooled milk.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the buttercream by beating 1 cup of softened butter with 4 cups of powdered sugar until fluffy. Add in 2 tablespoons of lavender and 2-4 tablespoons of heavy cream and mix until smooth.
- Once cool, frost the first layer of the cake with lavender buttercream, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides.
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