Easy Irish Tea Cake: A Cozy Dessert Delight

Irish Tea Cake is a wonderfully moist and tender dessert, perfect for any occasion. With its buttery flavor and soft texture, this cake melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more. Whether you’re serving it during afternoon tea or at a cozy gathering, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it warm, dusted with confectioner’s sugar, alongside a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.

Why You’ll Love This Irish Tea Cake

A Brief Overview of Irish Tea Cake

This traditional Irish treat, often enjoyed with a cup of tea, offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Its simple ingredients come together seamlessly, resulting in a delightful cake that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Irish Tea Cake is versatile enough for celebrations or casual get-togethers. It brings a touch of warmth to birthdays, afternoon tea parties, or even a cozy afternoon at home.

Ingredients for Irish Tea Cake

Key Ingredients

• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup (198 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cups (210 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (120 g) whole milk
• 1 tablespoon confectioner’s sugar, for dusting

Recommended Quality and Substitutions

For the best results, use high-quality unsalted butter and whole or 2% milk. Avoid substituting flour types or leavening agents to maintain the cake’s intended texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Irish Tea Cake

Preparing the Oven and Cake Pan

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and optionally line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Creaming Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer. Mix until the mixture is fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.

Mixing in Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Combining Dry Ingredients and Milk

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to eliminate clumps. Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Then add half of the milk, mixing gently again. Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients and milk, being careful not to overmix.

Baking the Cake

Transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan and bake for 26-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs. The cake should spring back when pressed lightly.

Tips for Perfecting Your Irish Tea Cake

Measuring Ingredients Accurately

Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient amounts, especially for flour.

How to Avoid Overmixing

When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

Best Practices for Baking

Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for accurate temperature readings. This will ensure even baking and a perfectly risen cake.

Serving Suggestions for Irish Tea Cake

Ideal Toppings and Pairings

Serve your Irish Tea Cake warm, dusted with confectioner’s sugar. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream and fresh berries for added flavor and presentation.

Storage and Freezing Tips

This cake is best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to two months; simply thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.

FAQs

More Delicious Recipes to Try Next

• St. Patrick’s Day Popcorn Recipe
• Loaded Leprechaun Popcorn
• Valentine’s Day Dessert Board
• Valentine’s Day Finger Foods
• Valentine’s Day Appetizers

Conclusion

With its delightful texture and flavor, this Easy Irish Tea Cake will surely become a favorite in your household. For more inspiration and ideas, visit Elly’s Recipes on Pinterest for an array of delightful treats that will make your next gathering special.