There’s something magical about pairing a warm cup of tea with a soft, flavorful cake. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon gathering or simply indulging in a quiet moment, tea-time cakes add a touch of sweetness to your day.
If you love baking (or eating!) delightful treats, here are three easy yet unique tea time cakes recipes that will impress everyone.
1. Classic Earl Grey Tea Cake
Infused with the delicate aroma of bergamot, this cake is a tea lover’s dream.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp loose Earl Grey tea leaves (or 2 tea bags)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Infuse the milk: Heat milk until warm (not boiling), add tea leaves, and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and cool.
- Mix dry ingredients: Whisk flour and baking powder in a bowl.
- Cream butter & sugar: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
- Combine: Alternate adding dry ingredients and tea-infused milk.
- Bake: Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
Why You’ll Love It: The subtle citrusy notes of Earl Grey make this cake fragrant and sophisticated.
Also Read: 10 Adorable Tea Cake Designs to Wow Your Guests!
2. Lemon & Poppy Seed Drizzle Cake
A zesty, moist cake with a crunchy bite—perfect for brightening up tea time.
Ingredients:
- 1¾ cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- Zest & juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
For the Drizzle:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
- Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, and poppy seeds.
- Cream butter & sugar, then add eggs one by one.
- Add yogurt, lemon zest, and juice, then fold in dry ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes.
- Drizzle: Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice, then pour over the cooled cake.
Why You’ll Love It: The tangy lemon glaze balances the nutty crunch of poppy seeds for a refreshing treat.
3. Spiced Chai Apple Cake
A cozy, aromatic cake packed with warm spices and tender apples.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp cardamom, ginger, and cloves
- ½ cup butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup grated apple
- ½ cup strong brewed chai tea
Instructions:
- Whisk dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, spices).
- Cream butter & sugar, then add eggs.
- Mix in grated apple and chai tea, then fold in dry ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes.
- Optional: Top with a cream cheese frosting or caramel drizzle.
Why You’ll Love It: The warmth of chai and the sweetness of apples make this cake a hug in every bite.
Final Thoughts
Tea Time cakes are more than just desserts—they’re little moments of joy. Whether you prefer the floral Earl Grey Cake, the zingy Lemon Poppy Seed, or the cozy Chai Apple Cake, these recipes will make your tea breaks unforgettable.
Which one will you try first? Happy baking!
Also Read: Perfectly Smooth Cake Frosting – 6 Pro Tricks You Need to Try!
My Name is Sanjeev Vekariya, I cover Articles related to Baking, Recipes, Desserts and Cake . I have more than 5 Years of Experience in Writing Food Article.