Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe: The Perfect Brew

Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake is a masterpiece of flavors, combining the brightness of citrus with the subtlety of black tea.

This show-stopping dessert is a perfect blend of moist and fluffy textures, with the bergamot-infused flavors of Earl Grey tea shining through.

With its delicate balance of flavors and stunning layered presentation, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering.

Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe: A Quick Overview

Category	Details
Recipe Description	Moist and flavorful Earl Grey tea-infused layer cake with a creamy buttercream frosting
Preparation Time	30 minutes
Cooking Time	20-25 minutes
Total Time	50-55 minutes
Type of Dish	Dessert
Cuisine	British-inspired
Quantity Produced	8-10 servings
Number of Calories	350-400 per serving

About Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe

This Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe is a sophisticated dessert that’s perfect for special occasions. The cake layers are infused with the distinctive flavor of Earl Grey tea, which adds a subtle citrus note to the sweetness of the butter and sugar.

The tea-soaked syrup and bergamot extract enhance the citrus flavor, while the creamy buttercream frosting provides a rich and velvety texture.

With its delicate flavor profile and stunning layered presentation, this cake is sure to impress your friends and family.

Plus, the recipe is surprisingly easy to make, with a few simple steps that yield a truly show-stopping dessert.

Why does The Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe Stand Out?

Unique Flavor Profile

• Infused with the distinctive flavor of Earl Grey tea, which adds a subtle citrus note to the cake
• Bergamot extract enhances the citrus flavor, creating a truly unique taste experience

Moist and Fluffy Texture

• The cake layers are incredibly moist and fluffy, thanks to the use of buttermilk and a combination of granulated and brown sugar
• The texture is further enhanced by the addition of Earl Grey tea syrup, which adds moisture and flavor to the cake

Show-Stopping Presentation

• The layered cake design makes for a stunning presentation, perfect for special occasions or celebrations
• The creamy buttercream frosting adds a rich and velvety texture, while the Earl Grey tea syrup adds a pop of color and flavor

Easy to Make

• Despite its impressive appearance, the recipe is surprisingly easy to make, with a simple syrup and a straightforward cake recipe
• The cake layers can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy bakers or those short on time

Versatile and Customizable

• The recipe can be easily customized to fit your personal taste preferences, with options to add different flavors or decorations
• The cake is perfect for a variety of occasions, from birthdays and weddings to baby showers and brunches

What are the ingredients in the Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake recipe?

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons Earl Grey tea leaves
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar

Must-Have Equipment for Making Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe

• Mixing Bowls:
  • Large mixing bowl for cake batter
  • Medium mixing bowl for Earl Grey tea syrup
  • Small mixing bowl for buttercream frosting
• Measuring Cups and Spoons:
  • Dry measuring cups for flour, sugar, and tea leaves
  • Liquid measuring cups for buttermilk and water
  • Measuring spoons for precise measurements
• Electric Mixer:
  • Stand mixer or handheld electric mixer for creaming butter and sugar
• Whisk and Rubber Spatula:
  • Whisk for mixing wet ingredients
  • Rubber spatula for scraping sides of bowl and folding ingredients
• Cake Pans:
  • Three 8-inch round cake pans for layer cake
• Oven:
  • Convection oven or conventional oven for baking cake layers
• Cooling Rack:
  • Wire rack for cooling cake layers
• Frosting Knife and Offset Spatula:
  • Frosting knife for spreading buttercream frosting
  • Offset spatula for smoothing and decorating cake

Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe: step by step guide

Step 1: Prepare the Earl Grey Tea Syrup and Cake Layers

• Start by brewing a strong cup of Earl Grey tea and letting it cool.
• In a small saucepan, combine the cooled tea, granulated sugar, and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
• Remove the syrup from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the butter, granulated sugar, and eggs. Add the flour mixture and whisk until just combined.
• Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Earl Grey Tea Buttercream Frosting

• In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
• Add the bergamot extract and mix until combined.
• Add the cooled Earl Grey tea syrup, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches the desired consistency and flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

• Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to level them, if necessary.
• Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Brush the top with some of the Earl Grey tea syrup.
• Spread a layer of buttercream frosting on top of the cake layer.
• Repeat the process with the remaining two cake layers, creating a stacked cake.
• Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining buttercream frosting.
• Decorate the cake as desired with fresh flowers, berries, or other toppings.

Perfect Pairings for Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe

• Beverages:
  • Earl Grey tea, of course!
  • Coffee or espresso for a contrasting flavor
  • Fresh fruit smoothies or juices for a refreshing twist
• Fresh Fruits:
  • Sliced strawberries or blueberries for a sweet and tangy combination
  • Fresh raspberries or blackberries for a tart and fruity pairing
• Nuts and Seeds:
  • Chopped almonds or walnuts for added crunch and flavor
  • Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for added texture and nutty flavor
• Chocolate:
  • Dark chocolate shavings or chocolate chips for a rich and decadent treat
  • White chocolate or caramel sauce for a creamy and sweet contrast
• Custards and Sauces:
  • Vanilla or caramel custard for a creamy and indulgent treat
  • Fresh fruit sauces or coulis for a sweet and tangy contrast

Mastering Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe: Insider Tips and Tricks

Cake Layers:

• Use room temperature ingredients for a tender crumb and even texture
• Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake
• Use a combination of granulated and brown sugar for a richer flavor
• Don’t overbake the cakes, as this can cause them to dry out

Earl Grey Tea Syrup:

• Use high-quality Earl Grey tea leaves for the best flavor
• Don’t over-steep the tea, as this can make the syrup bitter
• Use a combination of granulated and brown sugar for a richer flavor
• Strain the syrup before using it to remove any tea leaves or sediment

Buttercream Frosting:

• Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture
• Don’t overbeat the frosting, as this can cause it to become too light and airy
• Use a combination of powdered sugar and butter for a smooth and creamy frosting
• Add the Earl Grey tea syrup gradually to the frosting to achieve the right flavor and consistency

Assembly and Decoration:

• Use a level to ensure the cakes are even and straight
• Use a turntable to make it easier to decorate the cake
• Use a small amount of frosting to “glue” the cakes together
• Use fresh flowers or berries to add a pop of color and freshness to the cake

What nutritional benefits do the Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Offer?

Antioxidants:

• Earl Grey tea contains antioxidants that help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress
• Antioxidants can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease

Flavonoids:

• Earl Grey tea contains flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties
• Flavonoids can help reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health

Caffeine:

• Earl Grey tea contains a small amount of caffeine, which can help increase alertness and energy
• Caffeine can also help improve mental performance and reduce fatigue

Fiber:

• The cake layers contain fiber from the flour, which can help promote digestive health
• Fiber can also help lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar levels

Protein:

• The eggs and butter in the cake layers provide protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair
• Protein can also help regulate appetite and metabolism

Vitamins and Minerals:

• The cake layers contain vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, vitamin E, and iron
• These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and eyes, as well as supporting immune function and energy metabolism

How can you preserve leftovers of Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake?

Room Temperature:

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
• Keep the cake away from direct sunlight and heat sources

Refrigeration:

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
• Keep the cake away from strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily

Freezing:

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag
• Store the cake in the freezer for up to 2 months
• When ready to serve, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours

Freezer-Safe Containers:

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to store the cake
• Label the containers with the date and contents

Cake Preservation Tips:

• Avoid exposing the cake to air, as it can dry out quickly
• Keep the cake away from moisture, as it can cause the cake to become soggy
• If the cake becomes stale, try reviving it by wrapping it in plastic wrap and microwaving it for a few seconds

Conclusion

With its unique flavor profile and stunning presentation, this Earl Grey Tea Layer Cake Recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

The combination of moist cake, creamy frosting, and subtle citrus notes is a true showstopper, and the best part is that it’s easier to make than you might think.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to try something new, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the flavor of Earl Grey tea.

So go ahead, give it a try, and impress your friends and family with this truly special dessert.

FAQs

Q: What is Earl Grey tea and how does it flavor the cake?
A: Earl Grey tea is a type of black tea that is flavored with bergamot oil, which gives it a distinctive citrus flavor. In this recipe, the Earl Grey tea is used to infuse the cake with a subtle citrus flavor.

Q: Can I use a different type of tea instead of Earl Grey?
A: While you can experiment with other types of tea, the unique flavor of Earl Grey is a key component of this recipe. If you want to try a different tea, keep in mind that the flavor profile will be different.

Q: How do I store the cake and how long does it keep?
A: The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Q: Can I make the cake ahead of time and assemble it later?
A: Yes, you can make the cake layers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Assemble the cake just before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have bergamot extract? Can I substitute it with something else?
A: While bergamot extract is preferred for its unique flavor, you can substitute it with a combination of lemon and orange zest if you don’t have it on hand. However, keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.