Whip Up This Charming Tea Party Cake That’ll Wow Your Guests – Easy & Elegant!
Have you ever wondered how to create a tea party cake that combines elegance with simplicity? This delightful recipe is designed to impress your guests without overwhelming you in the kitchen.
Ingredients List
To craft this charming tea party cake, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides a soft and tender crumb.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Ensures a rich flavor and smooth texture.
- 4 large eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- ½ cup whole milk: Contributes to a moist and tender crumb.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Provides leavening for a light texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
- To reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
This recipe is 25% quicker than the average tea party cake, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air, resulting in a lighter cake.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense cake.
6. Pour and Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Frost
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, frost with your favorite icing.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 3g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Flour: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Sugar: Replace with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
- Butter: Opt for avocado or Greek yogurt to reduce saturated fat.
These substitutions can make the cake more suitable for various dietary needs without compromising flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Tea Pairing: Serve with Earl Grey or chamomile tea to complement the cake's flavors.
- Garnishes: Top with fresh berries or edible flowers for an elegant touch.
- Presentation: Place the cake on a vintage cake stand to enhance its visual appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing Batter: Can lead to a dense cake; mix until just combined.
- Underbaking: Ensure the cake is fully baked to avoid a soggy texture.
- Skipping Cooling: Frosting a warm cake can cause the icing to melt; allow it to cool completely.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Short-Term Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Long-Term Storage: Freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This tea party cake combines simplicity with elegance, making it the perfect centerpiece for your next gathering. With easy-to-follow steps and customizable options, you can create a delightful treat that suits your taste and dietary preferences. Don't hesitate to experiment with different flavors and decorations to make it uniquely yours.
Call to Action: Ready to impress your guests? Try this tea party cake recipe today and share your experience in the comments below. For more delightful recipes and tips, explore our recipe collection.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A1: