If you’re craving a simple yet utterly delightful treat, this Irish Tea Cake Recipe is just what you need to brighten your day. This charming cake is wonderfully moist with a tender crumb, providing the perfect balance of buttery richness and delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re indulging in a quiet afternoon at home or serving friends during a cozy gathering, this cake’s classic flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it an instant favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Irish Tea Cake Recipe is straightforward and essential, coming together to create a harmonious blend of taste and texture. From the richness of softened butter to the light fluffiness lent by baking powder, every element has its role in crafting this lovely cake.
- ½ cup butter (softened): Provides rich moisture and a tender crumb to the cake.
- 1 cup white sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s structure and tenderness.
- 2 eggs: Bind the ingredients together while contributing to the cake’s lightness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Gives the cake a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cake its body and texture.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully to a fluffy finish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness and overall flavor.
- ½ cup milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): A simple, elegant finishing touch that adds slight sweetness and visual appeal.
How to Make Irish Tea Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake comes out cleanly and with a lovely shape. This prep step sets the stage for a perfect bake.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, making your final cake tender and soft.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain the airy texture. Once combined, stir in the vanilla extract, which will infuse your cake with warming, aromatic flavors.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Combining the dry ingredients first ensures an even distribution, so your cake rises evenly without any salty or floury patches.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternate adding the dry ingredient mixture and milk to the wet butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour blend. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the cake dense, so handle it with care.
Step 6: Pour and Smooth Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This helps the cake bake uniformly and look inviting once done.
Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is simply irresistible.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling helps the cake set and prevents sogginess.
Step 9: Add the Finishing Touch
Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar. This simple gesture adds a lovely visual appeal and a hint of extra sweetness to every bite.
How to Serve Irish Tea Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the powdered sugar dusting is classic and elegant, consider adding fresh berries or a sprig of mint on the side for a burst of color and freshness. A light drizzle of honey or a smear of butter can also elevate the experience beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Irish Tea Cake pairs wonderfully with a pot of strong black tea or a creamy latte. For a heartier treat, accompany it with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to complement the cake’s mild sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the cake and serve on vintage-style plates for a charming afternoon tea vibe. Layer thinner slices with jam or lemon curd to create delicate tea sandwiches or cake stacks that wow your guests visually and in flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps well at room temperature for a day or two when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It will maintain its softness and moisture, making perfect leftovers for a snack or breakfast treat.
Freezing
If you want to save your Irish Tea Cake Recipe for a future occasion, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It freezes well for up to 2 months and thaws evenly without losing texture.
Reheating
To enjoy your cake like it’s freshly baked, warm slices gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a low oven wrapped in foil. This will revive the softness and bring back the luscious aroma that makes this cake irresistible.
FAQs
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Butter is essential in this Irish Tea Cake Recipe for its flavor and texture, so while you can use oil for moisture, it will change the cake’s character and richness slightly.
What type of milk works best in this recipe?
Whole milk is ideal to add richness and moisture, but you can substitute with 2% or plant-based milk if necessary, keeping the same quantity.
Can I add dried fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding raisins, currants, or chopped nuts can introduce interesting textures and flavors, making your tea cake even more special.
Is this cake gluten-free?
The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that measure as a 1:1 substitute. Adjust baking time accordingly.
How long will the cake last once baked?
Store it properly and it will stay delicious for up to 3 days at room temperature, or about a week refrigerated. Just make sure it’s well-covered to prevent drying out.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Irish Tea Cake Recipe is like inviting a little bit of Irish warmth and comfort right into your kitchen. Its simplicity combined with delicious flavor makes it a perfect go-to for both everyday moments and special gatherings. So grab your ingredients and enjoy every delightful slice—you truly cannot go wrong with this one.
