Cinnamon Tea Cake is a lovely treat that fills your home with warmth and delightful aroma. Its soft, buttery texture combined with a hint of cinnamon makes it the perfect companion for your afternoon tea or coffee. This cake is simple enough for a novice baker yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a drizzle of glaze, every bite is sure to bring a smile.
What Goes into This Cinnamon Tea Cake
To create this delicious cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 115 grams (1/2 cup or 1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 150 grams (3/4 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 210 grams (1 and 1/2 cups) plain flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 180 ml (3/4 cup) full fat or whole milk
- 20 grams (1 tablespoon) butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon caster sugar or granulated sugar
Step-by-Step Cinnamon Tea Cake Recipe
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Preheat your oven to 180 C (350 F) standard or 160 C (320 F) fan-forced. Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with baking or parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room temperature butter, sugar, and vanilla together until the mixture is pale and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing briefly after each addition. Don’t worry if the mixture looks a little lumpy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything mixes well.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
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Add half of this flour mixture and all of the milk to the butter mixture. Mix slowly on low speed until combined.
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Add the remaining flour mixture and continue mixing until the cake batter is smooth and creamy.
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Pour the batter into your prepared cake tin and bake it in the oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean.
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While the cake is still warm, generously brush the top with melted butter. Then, sprinkle over the mixture of ground cinnamon and sugar.
How to Serve Cinnamon Tea Cake
This delightful cake shines on its own, but there are many fun ways to serve it. You can simply cut it into slices and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Pair it with your favorite herbal tea or a rich coffee for a comforting afternoon delight.
For a lovely presentation, you can dust the top with a little powdered sugar or arrange slices on a cute cake stand. A side of fresh berries could add a nice touch, too!
Helpful Tricks for Cinnamon Tea Cake
- Storage: To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Add-Ins: Feeling adventurous? Try adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Frosting: For a sweet twist, consider topping the cake with a simple glaze made from icing sugar and milk!
Cinnamon Tea Cake: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the butter with margarine?
Yes, you can use margarine instead of butter. The flavor may change slightly, but it will still create a lovely cake.
Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Let the cake cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Is it possible to make this cake in a different pan?
Yes! You can use a loaf pan or muffin tins. Just adjust the baking time accordingly – muffins will take about 15-20 minutes, while a loaf may take closer to 45-50 minutes.
There you have it! Whip up a warm and cozy Cinnamon Tea Cake for your next gathering or special afternoon treat. Enjoy every delightful piece!