Cinnamon Tea Cake is a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee. This simple yet delicious cake is light and fluffy, with a warm cinnamon-sugar mixture swirled through its center and sprinkled on top. The cake’s delicate texture and sweet, spiced flavor profile make it a favorite for afternoon tea, breakfast, or as a comforting dessert. Often baked in a round tin and served sliced, cinnamon tea cake is not overly sweet, which makes it an ideal companion to your favorite beverage. The recipe involves straightforward ingredients and easy steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels who wish to enjoy a homemade, heartwarming treat.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven and prepare the pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This creates a smooth base for your cake.
- Add eggs and vanilla:
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. This helps to ensure an even distribution in the batter, aiding in a uniform rise.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined to keep the cake tender.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar:
- In a small bowl, mix the ground cinnamon and brown sugar together. This will be used to create the flavorful swirl and topping.
- Assemble the cake:
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter evenly. Pour the remaining batter over the top, and then sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar.
- Bake the cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and serve:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Cinnamon Tea Cake is effortlessly elegant and wonderfully tasty, making it a perfect choice for any occasion that calls for a subtle sweetness and light spice. Its inviting aroma and fine crumb are sure to delight anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying baked treat.
