Name: Irish Tea Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tablespoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole milk; Powdered sugar for dusting; Optional: fresh berries

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If you’re searching for a dessert that’s equal parts simple and enchanting, look no further than the Irish Tea Cake. This classic treat is a beautiful ode to uncomplicated baking, boasting a tender crumb, subtle sweetness, and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar that makes every bite pure joy. Whether you’re serving it with a mug of hot tea on a rainy afternoon or dressing it up for a spring brunch, this cake always feels like a heartfelt hug from the Emerald Isle.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to Irish Tea Cake, the real magic is in the straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the richness of butter to the bright lift of baking powder, giving you a cake that’s golden, moist, and utterly irresistible.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides that melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, buttery flavor essential to the cake’s crumb.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cake just right, letting the vanilla and buttery notes shine through.
Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and help the cake rise beautifully for a light, airy bite.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the cake with warm, inviting flavor—pure comfort in every forkful.
All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Gives the Irish Tea Cake its structure and soft, tender crumb.
Baking powder (1/2 tablespoon): Ensures the cake rises just enough for a pleasing, fluffy texture.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors.
Whole milk (1/2 cup): Adds moisture for a delicate, not-too-dense cake.
Powdered sugar (for dusting): A classic finishing touch that gives the cake its signature look and a hint of extra sweetness.
Fresh berries (optional): A lovely garnish that adds color and a pop of tartness alongside each slice.

How to Make Irish Tea Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan generously—this is your insurance policy for an easy release later! While the oven is warming up, set out all your ingredients so they’re at room temperature, which helps everything blend together smoothly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale, fluffy, and almost cloud-like. This step is key for getting that soft, tender crumb that makes Irish Tea Cake so special, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Pour in the vanilla extract and mix again, letting that warm, inviting aroma fill your kitchen.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This not only keeps everything evenly distributed but also helps avoid overmixing, which can make your cake tough.

Step 5: Bring the Batter Together

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the flour mixture. Gently mix until just combined—stop as soon as the batter is smooth, so your Irish Tea Cake stays light and tender.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once your cake has cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar. If you’re feeling festive, scatter some fresh berries over the top for a burst of color and brightness. Now all that’s left to do is slice and enjoy!

How to Serve Irish Tea Cake

Garnishes

A classic Irish Tea Cake is most often finished with a simple snowfall of powdered sugar, which looks beautiful and adds just the right touch of sweetness. For a little extra flair, a handful of fresh berries—think strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries—makes the cake look as lovely as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This cake absolutely shines alongside a hot cup of Irish breakfast tea or a robust coffee. For a more indulgent treat, you can serve it with a dollop of softly whipped cream or a spoonful of tangy crème fraîche. Even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side makes for an irresistible pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get playful with your Irish Tea Cake presentation! Try slicing the cake into wedges and layering them with berries and whipped cream for a trifle-inspired dessert. You can also cut the cake into squares and stack them for a charming, rustic look at a picnic or brunch spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any Irish Tea Cake left over, simply cover it tightly or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and delicious for up to three days, making it perfect for easy snacking or tucking into lunchboxes.

Freezing

Irish Tea Cake freezes beautifully! Wrap the cooled cake (either whole or in slices) in plastic wrap, then foil, and pop it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature whenever you’re ready to enjoy a slice of homemade comfort.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked warmth, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. If you’re reheating the whole cake, cover it loosely with foil and warm it in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes. This brings out the buttery aroma and soft crumb as if you just baked it!

FAQs

Can I use a different size cake pan?

Absolutely! While a 9-inch round pan is traditional for Irish Tea Cake, you can use an 8-inch pan for a slightly taller cake or even a square pan. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary depending on the size and shape.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite dairy-free milk. The cake will still be wonderfully moist and tender, though the flavor may be slightly different.

Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?

Definitely! For a twist, try substituting almond extract for vanilla or folding in a handful of dried currants or chocolate chips. Just remember, the charm of Irish Tea Cake is in its simplicity, so keep additions subtle.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Irish Tea Cake is ready. The top should also be golden and spring back when lightly pressed.

Can I make Irish Tea Cake in advance for a party?

Absolutely! Irish Tea Cake can be baked a day ahead and stored covered at room temperature. If you’re planning to freeze it, do so without the powdered sugar, then dust just before serving for the freshest look.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy, elegant, and downright comforting, Irish Tea Cake is the answer. Whether you savor it with afternoon tea or share it at a special gathering, this timeless cake is sure to win hearts. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!

Irish Tea Cake Recipe

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4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This traditional Irish Tea Cake is a simple yet delicious vanilla-flavored cake perfect for teatime or as a light dessert. Moist and subtly sweet, it’s easy to bake and pairs wonderfully with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk

For Serving

Powdered sugar for dusting
Optional: fresh berries

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light, creamy, and fluffy, ensuring a tender cake texture.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to blend fully. Then mix in the vanilla extract for fragrant flavor.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter and maintaining a tender crumb.
Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake’s center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and optionally serve with fresh berries for a delightful presentation.