If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that pairs perfectly with your afternoon tea, this Irish Tea Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a simple yet delightful cake, boasting a tender crumb and a subtle sweetness that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re gathering with friends or just taking a moment for yourself, this cake brings a little piece of Ireland’s baking charm right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just straightforward ingredients that come together to create the magic of this Irish Tea Cake Recipe. Each one plays a key role, from the richness of butter to the lightness of the baking powder, ensuring your cake rises just right and tastes effortlessly delicious.
- ½ cup butter (softened): Provides moisture and richness for a tender crumb.
- 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a golden color when baked.
- 2 eggs: Adds structure and helps bind everything together perfectly.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting flavor that lingers.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, giving it body and texture.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: The secret to that lovely rise and fluffiness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.
- ½ cup milk: Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender without weighing it down.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): A delicate finishing touch for that classic Irish Tea Cake look.
How to Make Irish Tea Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan—this simple step ensures your cake releases easily and bakes evenly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and white sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration is key to a soft, delicate texture in your final cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. These steps add body and enhance the cake’s lovely flavor profile.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Mixing the dry ingredients before adding them to the wet mixture keeps everything even and ensures a smooth batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Add the dry ingredients and milk alternately into your wet mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until everything comes together—overmixing can make your cake dense instead of fluffy.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smooth the surface a bit, and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Finish
Let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. When it’s ready, dust it generously with powdered sugar for that charming, classic finish.
How to Serve Irish Tea Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Dusting this cake with powdered sugar is simple, but it elevates the presentation instantly. If you’re feeling fancy, try adding a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint to brighten the plate and contrast the sweetness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Irish Tea Cake is a star on its own, but pairing it with a cup of strong black tea, a dollop of whipped cream, or even some creamy Irish butter makes the experience even cozier and more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, slice the cake into petite squares and serve on a tiered stand alongside other Irish-inspired treats. Or, layer slices with jam or lemon curd for a playful twist that will delight guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your Irish Tea Cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. This keeps the cake moist and delicious without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cake later, freezing is a great option. Wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn, and it will keep beautifully for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To bring your frozen or leftover cake back to life, warm slices gently in the microwave or in a low oven for a few minutes. This revives the soft texture and makes it taste freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the butter for oil in this Irish Tea Cake Recipe?
Butter gives the cake its classic richness and flavor, which oil can’t replicate exactly. While you can use oil for a slightly different texture, the flavor and crumb will be less traditional.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best results.
How can I make this Irish Tea Cake Recipe dairy-free?
Replace the butter with a plant-based margarine and use your favorite non-dairy milk instead of cow’s milk. The cake will still be moist and tasty, though the flavor might be slightly different.
Can I add flavors like citrus or spices to this recipe?
Yes! A touch of grated lemon or orange zest, or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, can add a wonderful dimension to the cake, making it uniquely yours while keeping the spirit of the Irish Tea Cake Recipe.
What is the best type of tea to serve with this cake?
A robust black tea, like Irish Breakfast or Assam, pairs particularly well with the sweet, buttery cake, balancing its richness and enhancing the overall tea-time experience.
Final Thoughts
This Irish Tea Cake Recipe is a heartwarming, truly simple bake that never fails to bring joy. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, giving this recipe a try will add a special crust of comfort to your day that’s impossible to resist. Trust me, once you taste this cake, it might just become your new favorite!
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Irish Tea Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Irish Tea Cake is a classic, tender cake perfect for enjoying with a hot cup of tea. This simple and delightful cake features a moist crumb, subtle vanilla flavor, and a dusting of powdered sugar on top, making it a perfect treat for any time of the day.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cake.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and white sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to incorporate air for a tender cake texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully combined before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can make the cake dense.
- Pour batter and bake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured cake pan. Spread it evenly and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes to firm up. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
- Serve with powdered sugar: Before serving, dust the top of the cake lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant, sweet finish.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter; mix until ingredients are just combined to keep the cake light and tender.
- If you like, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients to add a warm spice flavor typical of some traditional Irish cakes.
- The cake is best served fresh but can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong black tea or Irish breakfast tea.
