Delicate Tea Cake

by

Introduction:
Elevate your afternoon tea experience with this delicate and delightful Tea Cake. Light, fluffy, and subtly sweet, this cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Its soft crumb and tender texture make it an ideal treat for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant tea parties. Decorate it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze to highlight its understated elegance.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Additions:

  • Zest of one lemon or orange for a citrusy note
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract for a nutty flavor
  • Fresh berries or dried fruits folded into the batter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:

  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract (and citrus zest or almond extract, if using).

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Bake the Cake:

  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Prepare the Glaze (Optional):

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

8. Glaze the Cake:

  • Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  • Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

9. Serve:

  • Serve the Delicate Tea Cake as is or with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy it with a cup of tea, coffee, or your favorite beverage.

Tips for Success:

  • Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and a light, fluffy texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and soft.
  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Nutritional Estimate:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Calories: Approximately 180-220 per slice (based on 10 slices)
  • Total Fat: Approximately 9-11g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 5-6g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 50-60mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 100-150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 0-1g
  • Sugars: Approximately 15-20g
  • Protein: Approximately 2-3g

Recommendation:
This Delicate Tea Cake is a charming and versatile addition to any dessert table. Its light and airy texture, combined with a subtle sweetness, makes it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite tea or coffee. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a simple glaze, or adorned with fresh fruits, this cake is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Ideal for gatherings, tea parties, or a quiet afternoon treat, this cake is a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

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