There’s something magical about the scent of freshly baked cake wafting through the house, especially when it’s infused with Earl Grey tea. This Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake is like a warm hug for your taste buds, perfectly balancing the robust flavors of black tea and fragrant bergamot. Imagine slicing into a cake that’s moist, fluffy, and has that delightful hint of citrus pure bliss.
This cake isn’t just a treat it’s an experience. Every bite transports you to a quaint English tea room where the clinking of china harmonizes with laughter and love. Picture serving this gem at Mother’s Day brunch or any special gathering, leaving your friends and family begging for the recipe (which you’ll graciously share, of course).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike
- Its unique flavor profile combines floral notes with a rich buttery base for an unforgettable taste experience
- Visually, it’s stunning a golden hue with delicate crumbs that make it a showstopper on any dessert table
- Plus, you can enjoy it as a snack or dessert, making it super versatile
I remember the first time I baked this cake. My mother took one bite and said it reminded her of her childhood in England, and I felt like I had magically transported her back in time.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture it provides structure to your cake.
- Earl Grey Tea Leaves: Loose leaves yield better flavor than tea bags look for fragrant options with natural bergamot.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake beautifully feel free to experiment with brown sugar for added depth.
- Butter: Opt for unsalted butter so you can control the salt level it contributes to the cake’s richness.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for consistency in baking they help bind all ingredients together perfectly.
- Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising check expiration dates regularly.
- Milk: Whole milk adds moisture substitute with almond or oat milk if desired.
- Zest of Lemon: Fresh lemon zest brightens up the flavor profile don’t skip this step.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing that warmth to fill your kitchen. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or nonstick spray to ensure an easy release later.
Prepare the Tea Infusion: Steep 2 tablespoons of Earl Grey tea leaves in half a cup of boiling water for about 10 minutes. The aromatic steam will fill your kitchen like a cozy hug.
Cream Butter and Sugar Together: In a mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy about 3-5 minutes should do it. This process is vital for incorporating air into your cake.
Add Eggs and Milk: Beat in three large eggs one at a time, followed by half a cup of milk and one tablespoon of lemon zest. The mixture should be smooth and slightly fluffy at this point.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour, one tablespoon of baking powder, and your steeped Earl Grey leaves (strained). Gently fold flour mixture into wet ingredients until just combined be careful not to overmix.
Bake It: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time.
Once baked, allow your Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Don’t rush this part the anticipation makes each slice even more satisfying.
Now grab yourself a slice (or two) along with some fresh fruit or whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every crumb while soaking in those compliments from friends and family you deserve them.
You Must Know
- This Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake combines delightful flavors with a perfect blend of tea and citrus
- The aromatic notes of bergamot elevate this cake, making it an unforgettable treat
- Its moist texture and lovely aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth and love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by brewing the Earl Grey tea, allowing it to cool while you mix the dry ingredients. Cream butter and sugar to perfection, then add eggs one at a time for a fluffy batter.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out some flour for almond flour, or add chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. A splash of vanilla can also enhance the flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming this helps create that light texture
- When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup to avoid dense cake
- Always let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent a melty mess
Every time I bake this cake, my friends rave about it especially when I tell them it’s infused with tea. They can’t believe how light and flavorful it is.
FAQ
Can I use other types of tea in this cake?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different teas like chai or green tea for unique flavors.
Is it necessary to use fresh lemons?
Using fresh lemons enhances flavor significantly, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substituting regular flour with a gluten-free blend will work perfectly for those with dietary restrictions.

Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake, where the warmth of freshly baked goodness meets the aromatic essence of Earl Grey tea. This cake is moist, fluffy, and infused with a hint of citrus zest, making it perfect for any gathering or special occasion. Picture serving this showstopper at your next brunch—your guests will be asking for seconds and the recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Steep Earl Grey tea leaves in half a cup of boiling water for about 10 minutes; strain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by milk and lemon zest until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder; fold into wet ingredients along with the strained tea leaves until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: English
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour or adding chopped nuts for crunch. Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days; reheat slices briefly in the microwave.