Super Soft and Fragrant Earl Grey Tea Cake

Earl Grey Tea Cake is a delicious and aromatic cake, prepared with the famous bergamot-flavored infusion. Easy to make, it is characterized by a very soft dough, enriched with chopped dark chocolate, which will enhance the pungent note of the citrus fruit. Sprinkled with powdered sugar and garnished with strawberries, blueberries and flaked almonds, it is perfect for breakfast, together with a cup of milky coffee, or for a snack in perfect English style, accompanied by a good hot tea.

What is Earl Grey Tea Cake?

The Earl Grey Tea Cake blends the aromatic flavors of Earl Grey tea with the comforting texture of a soft cake, creating a unique and fragrant dessert. The history of Earl Grey tea itself dates back to the 19th century, named after the British Prime Minister, Earl Charles Grey, who is said to have received a tea blend infused with bergamot, an aromatic citrus fruit.

The concept of incorporating Earl Grey tea into baked goods likely grew from the popularity of the tea itself in the British tea culture. As Earl Grey tea cakes became a popular treat, bakers began experimenting with the infusion of tea into cakes to enhance the flavor with its distinct citrusy aroma, often complementing the sweetness of the cake with a hint of sophistication.

Pro Tips for The Best Earl Grey Tea Cake

• Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the ingredients combine more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a more even texture in the final cake.
• To keep the cake light and airy, avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Mix until just combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense.
• Earl Grey tea is known for its distinctive bergamot flavor. If you prefer a stronger citrus note, feel free to add a few extra drops of bergamot oil or use a more robust blend of Earl Grey tea.
• Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing it to avoid it breaking apart. Once cooled, you can frost or glaze it for added sweetness and presentation.

What's The Difference Between Coffee Cake and Tea Cake?

Coffee cake is typically a sweet, spiced cake often served with a crumbly topping or streusel, designed to complement a cup of coffee. It’s usually a bit denser and richer.

On the other hand, tea cake is lighter and more delicate, often infused with flavors like Earl Grey tea or fruit, making it a perfect pairing for a cup of tea. Tea cakes are typically less sweet and have a softer, fluffier texture.

What Does Earl Grey Tea Cake Taste Like?

Earl Grey tea has a distinct flavor profile that combines the earthiness of black tea with the bright, citrusy notes of bergamot, a type of orange. The result is a fragrant, slightly floral tea with a refreshing yet smooth taste.

Can I Use Another Type of Tea in This Cake?

Of course! For example, Chai tea will add warm, spicy notes, while Jasmine tea can provide a fragrant floral aroma. Green tea could also work for a lighter, more subtle flavor. Just keep in mind that the intensity and characteristics of the tea will affect the overall taste of the cake.

Can I Fill This Cake With Any Cream?

For an even more intense and enveloping aroma, we enriched the dessert with grated lemon zest, which you can replace with orange zest, cinnamon or vanilla. You can garnish the surface with a voluptuous mascarpone cream or cut it in half and fill it with a cocoa ganache or a firm and full-bodied pastry cream. The secret to an impeccable result is to work the mixture for a long time: you can use a hand whisk or an electric one, for greater convenience.

Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Does It Freeze Well?

Yes! After baking and cooling completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature before serving.

How to Store Earl Grey Tea Cake

Earl Grey Tea Cake can be stored under a glass bell jar at room temperature for a maximum of 4-5 days.

How to Make Earl Grey Tea Cake

Pour the sugar into a bowl.

Add the seed oil.

Mix with a hand whisk.

Flavor with the grated lemon zest and add the eggs.

Mix well.

Then, pour in the sifted flour and the yeast.

Add the teaspoon of Earl Grey tea.

Mix gently with a spatula.

Pour in the milk slowly.

Finally, add the chopped dark chocolate.

At the end, you should obtain a homogeneous mixture.

Pour the mixture into a 22 cm diameter cake tin, lined with a sheet of baking paper, and level with a spoon.

Bake the cake in the oven at 360°F/180°C for about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Decorate the cake with powdered sugar and fresh fruit and almond flakes. Enjoy!