There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cake wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s a Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake. Imagine that delightful blend of fragrant bergamot and buttery sweetness, tickling your senses and making your taste buds dance in anticipation. It’s the perfect way to celebrate mom, or anyone you want to pamper with a delightful treat.

As you slice into this moist cake, the delicate crumb reveals a hint of tea that adds an unexpected twist to a classic dessert. Whether you’re enjoying it at a cozy family brunch or savoring it solo with your favorite cup of tea, this cake is bound to create delicious memories worth relishing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake comes together in no time, making it great for busy bakers
- Its unique flavor profile will surprise and delight everyone at your table
- The elegant presentation makes it a standout centerpiece for any occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with whipped cream or fresh fruit for added flair
I remember the first time I made this cake; my mom’s eyes lit up like a kid in a candy store when she took her first bite. It was one of those heartwarming moments that made all the flour-covered chaos worth it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cake Flour: This is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture; regular flour just won’t cut it.
- Earl Grey Tea Bags: Choose high-quality tea bags to ensure rich flavor throughout the cake.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness for balanced flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the cake perfectly; feel free to experiment with alternative sweeteners if desired.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for optimal binding and moisture; they help create that beautiful rise.
- Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for maximum lift and fluffiness.
- Milk: Dairy adds moisture; substitute with non-dairy milk if needed.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances all flavors beautifully; opt for pure vanilla for best results.
- Zest of Lemon: Adds brightness to balance the richness of the cake; use fresh lemons for vibrant flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prepare Your Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and dust it lightly with flour.
Brew That Earl Grey Magic: While waiting, steep two Earl Grey tea bags in half a cup of hot milk for about 10 minutes. This infuses the milk with delightful flavors—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Cream Butter and Sugar Together: In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Aim for that dreamy texture—it should look like clouds.
Add Eggs and Flavorings: Gently beat in four large eggs one by one, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in your brewed milk, zest of one lemon, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together two cups of cake flour and two teaspoons of baking powder. Gradually fold this mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix or it’ll be tough!
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown; insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
This Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake will become an annual tradition once you taste its divine flavors! Enjoy every slice as you create lasting memories around your dining table.
You Must Know
- This delightful Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake combines fragrant tea flavors with a moist cake texture, making it an ideal treat for special occasions
- The citrus notes from the bergamot elevate the cake, creating a delightful taste that will impress your guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by brewing the Earl Grey tea, letting it cool while you mix dry ingredients. Then, cream the butter and sugar before adding eggs and tea for a smooth batter.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips, lemon zest, or even a drizzle of honey on top for added sweetness and flavor complexity.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat slices in the microwave briefly for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure they blend smoothly, creating a uniform batter
- Avoid overmixing once you add flour; this keeps your cake light and fluffy
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing for clean edges and perfect presentation
Baking this cake brought back memories of my mother sipping Earl Grey while I stirred bowls of batter as a child. Her laughter filled the kitchen, and I can still hear her teasing me about my flour-covered face.
FAQ
Can I use other types of tea?
Yes, feel free to substitute with chai or green tea for different flavors.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a delicious gluten-free version.
Can I freeze leftovers of this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap before freezing to maintain freshness.

Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the enchanting flavors of our Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake, where fragrant bergamot meets buttery sweetness in every moist slice. Perfect for brunch or a cozy afternoon tea, this delightful cake brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Simple to prepare, it promises to be a cherished treat that creates beautiful memories with every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup milk
- 2 Earl Grey tea bags
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Steep two Earl Grey tea bags in ½ cup of hot milk for about 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the brewed milk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the cake flour and baking powder. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Bakery
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg