Picture this: a warm slice of cake, where the rich flavors of bergamot and delicate vanilla intertwine, sending your senses into a blissful whirl. I discovered the magic of this Earl Grey Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream during a rainy afternoon, seeking comfort from the dreariness outside. As the fragrant aroma of steeping Earl Grey filled my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of contentment wash over me.
This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simplicity and taste, perfect for an afternoon tea or a sophisticated dessert for guests. The airy layers soaked with Earl Grey syrup provide a sophisticated twist that is sure to enchant anyone who takes a bite, while the velvety buttercream adds a sumptuous finishing touch.
Whether you’re looking to elevate your baking game or simply want to impress friends and family, this Earl Grey Cake combines elegance with the comfort of homemade goodness. Join me as we embark on this delightful baking adventure that transforms everyday ingredients into a showstopper dessert.
Why is Earl Grey Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream irresistible?
Wow your guests with this elegant cake that brings a subtle touch of luxury to any occasion. Deliciously unique, the combination of Earl Grey and vanilla bean creates a harmony of flavors that will captivate your taste buds. Simple yet stunning, the recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels, making it a perfect choice for anyone tired of fast food. Versatile enough for tea time or dessert, this cake shines in every setting. Plus, time-saving tips within the recipe ensure you can whip it up without stress. Delight in the richness of homemade baking with this stunning masterpiece!
Earl Grey Cake With Vanilla Bean Buttercream Ingredients
For the Cake
• 1 1/2 cup milk – Use whole milk for a richer flavor, or substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• 1 Tbsp Earl Grey tea, heaping, loose leaf – The loose leaf provides a more intense flavor than tea bags.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – For best results, sift the flour to ensure a lighter cake texture.
• 2 tsp baking powder – This is essential for helping the cake rise beautifully.
• 1 tsp Earl Grey tea, finely ground – Finely ground tea enhances the cake’s flavor and aroma.
• 3/4 tsp salt – A crucial addition that balances the sweetness of the cake.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easier creaming.
• 1 1/2 cup granulated sugar – This gives sweetness and helps to create a lovely crumb.
• 3 large eggs, room temperature – Using eggs at room temperature helps emulsify the batter and create a smoother mixture.
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
For the Syrup
• 1 cup Earl Grey milk, room temperature – This is made from steeping the loose leaf in milk for a delightful flavor infusion.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for syrup) – Sweetens the syrup and adds moisture to the cake layers.
• 1/2 cup water – Helps to dissolve the sugar in the syrup.
• 1 Tbsp Earl Grey tea (for syrup) – A touch of this tea infuses the syrup with a fragrant note.
For the Buttercream
• 3 large egg whites – Fresh egg whites give the buttercream its airy texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar (for buttercream) – This sweetens the buttercream and helps create stability.
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature (for buttercream) – The key to a creamy and rich buttercream.
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste – Adds flecks of vanilla flavor that elevate the buttercream.
Embrace the joy of baking with this Earl Grey Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream as your canvas for creativity and flavor!
How to Make Earl Grey Cake
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Boil and Steep: In a small pot, bring the milk and loose leaf Earl Grey tea to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat and steep for 10 minutes. Strain the mixture and measure out 1 cup; add more milk if needed.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 6” cake rounds by greasing and flouring them, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, finely ground Earl Grey tea, and salt until well blended. This step ensures a uniform texture in your cake.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: Use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to cream the room temperature butter and granulated sugar. Mix on medium-high until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Slowly add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then add the vanilla extract.
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Alternate Additions: Gradually incorporate the flour mixture and the prepared Earl Grey milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined—this will create a light and fluffy batter.
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
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Cool the Cakes: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes on a wire rack. Then, carefully turn them out onto the wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
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Prepare the Syrup: Combine the sugar, water, and 1 Tbsp of Earl Grey tea in a small pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and steep for 5 minutes before straining and allowing it to cool completely.
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Make the Buttercream: In your stand mixer, combine egg whites and granulated sugar for the buttercream. Whisk until combined, then place the bowl over a double boiler. Whisk constantly until the mixture reaches 160°F and feels warm, about 3 minutes.
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Whip the Meringue: Transfer the bowl to your stand mixer and whip on medium-high speed until the meringue is stiff and cool to the touch, usually about 5-10 minutes.
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Add Butter: Switch to the paddle attachment and gradually add the cubed room temperature butter to the meringue. Mix until smooth and creamy, then add in the vanilla bean paste until fully incorporated.
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Layer the Cake: Begin assembling your cake by placing one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Brush the top with 2-3 Tbsp of the prepared Earl Grey syrup.
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Frost: Spread approximately 2/3 cup of the buttercream evenly over that layer, then repeat with the remaining layers. After stacking, apply a thin crumb coat of frosting on the outside and chill for 20 minutes to set.
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Decorate: Once chilled, pipe decorative rosettes on top using a 1M tip for a beautiful finish.
Optional: Dust the top with edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Earl Grey Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply bake and cool them completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The Earl Grey syrup can also be made up to 24 hours ahead—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, assemble the cake by brushing each layer with syrup, spreading on the buttercream, and chilling for 20 minutes to set. This way, you’ll have a stunning, restaurant-quality dessert with minimal stress on the day of your gathering!
Tips for the Best Earl Grey Cake
Tea Selection: Choose high-quality loose-leaf Earl Grey for a more pronounced flavor compared to bagged tea. Quality matters!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better emulsification. This helps create a light and airy cake.
Sifting Flour: Sift your all-purpose flour before measuring to avoid a dense cake. This simple step ensures a fluffy texture in your Earl Grey Cake.
Measuring Syrup Carefully: When applying the Earl Grey syrup, be mindful not to over-soak the layers. Too much syrup can make the cake soggy.
Proper Cooling: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. If they’re still warm, the buttercream may melt, affecting the final presentation.
Frosting Techniques: For an eye-catching finish, use a star tip for piping your buttercream. It adds an elegant touch to your Earl Grey Cake!
Earl Grey Cake Variations
Embrace the chance to make this delightful cake your own with creative twists and substitutions that enhance its unique flavors.
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Dairy-Free: Swap regular milk for almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter for a delicious vegan-friendly version.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free cake that maintains its light, fluffy texture.
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Flavor Infusion: Add 1-2 teaspoons of orange zest to the batter for a bright citrus note that complements the Earl Grey beautifully.
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Nutty Touch: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the batter for a delightful crunch that adds texture.
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Decadent Chocolate: Replace a portion of the butter with cocoa powder for a chocolatey Earl Grey cake that satisfies all sweet cravings.
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Herbal Twist: Experiment with herbal teas like lavender or chamomile for a unique flavor profile that still delivers that aromatic experience.
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Zesty Buttercream: Blend in lemon or orange zest into the vanilla bean buttercream for an uplifting citrus burst that lightens the richness.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the batter for a warm spice that adds a subtle and aromatic kick to each bite.
Let your creativity flow and elevate this cake to a new level of indulgence with these friendly variations!
What to Serve with Earl Grey Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream?
Crafting the perfect meal around this fragrant cake can elevate your gathering from ordinary to extraordinary. Picture the harmonious flavors dancing on your palate!
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Fresh Berries: A mix of raspberries and blueberries adds a burst of freshness, making each bite feel zesty and light.
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Earl Grey Tea: Brew a pot of this aromatic tea to echo the cake’s flavors; its soothing warmth complements the rich dessert beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the cake’s spongy texture, perfect for indulgence.
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Lemon Curd: The bright tanginess of lemon curd cuts through the sweetness of the cake and provides a refreshing foil to its richness.
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Affogato: Pour a shot of hot espresso over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luxurious dessert experience, perfect alongside your cake.
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Light Charcuterie Board: Pair the cake with a selection of soft cheeses, nuts, and honey, offering guests delightful tastes to explore.
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Champagne or Prosecco: Toasting with a chilled glass of sparkling wine adds a festive touch that makes every slice even sweeter.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet cookies create a lovely nutty addition that pairs delightfully with the cake’s delicate flavors.
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Mint Tea: Serve refreshing mint tea chilled or hot, providing an aromatic counterpoint that beautifully enhances the Earl Grey essence.
How to Store and Freeze Earl Grey Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days, covered with a cake dome or wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
Fridge: If stored in the fridge, the Earl Grey Cake will last for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s wrapped well to prevent it from absorbing odors.
Freezer: To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw the cake overnight in the fridge before serving. For a warm slice, gently reheat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Earl Grey Cake With Vanilla Bean Buttercream Recipe FAQS
What type of Earl Grey tea should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using high-quality loose-leaf Earl Grey tea. Loose leaf tea provides a richer aroma and taste compared to standard tea bags, enhancing the overall experience of your Earl Grey Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream.
How should I store my Earl Grey cake?
The Earl Grey Cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days when covered with a cake dome or wrapped in plastic wrap. If you prefer storing it in the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid any unwanted odors from the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Earl Grey cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Earl Grey Cake, slice it into portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This way, it can be preserved for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the slices overnight in the refrigerator.
What if my cake is too dense or rises unevenly?
Very! If your Earl Grey Cake turns out dense or uneven, there are a couple of tweaks you can consider. First, ensure that you’re not overmixing the batter after adding the flour, as this can develop gluten and create a denser texture. Second, check that your baking powder is fresh; expired leavening agents can lead to uneven rising. Finally, make sure to properly measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off rather than scooping directly from the bag.
Is this cake suitable for those with nut allergies?
Absolutely! The Earl Grey Cake recipe does not include any nuts, making it generally safe for those with nut allergies. However, always ensure that your other ingredients, such as butter and sugar, are processed in a nut-free environment if you are cooking for someone with a severe allergy.
How can I enhance the vanilla flavor in the buttercream?
If you’re looking to elevate the vanilla flavor in your buttercream, consider using a combination of vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste. This will give your buttercream a rich, intense flavor and delightful tiny flecks of vanilla bean, making your Earl Grey Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream even more delightful!
Earl Grey Cake With Vanilla Bean Buttercream Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small pot, bring the milk and loose leaf Earl Grey tea to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, turn off the heat and steep for 10 minutes. Strain the mixture and measure out 1 cup; add more milk if needed.
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 6” cake rounds by greasing and flouring them, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, finely ground Earl Grey tea, and salt until well blended.
- Use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to cream the room temperature butter and granulated sugar. Mix on medium-high until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Slowly add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then add the vanilla extract.
- Gradually incorporate the flour mixture and prepared Earl Grey milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
- Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Combine the sugar, water, and 1 Tbsp of Earl Grey tea in a small pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and steep for 5 minutes before straining and allowing to cool completely.
- In your stand mixer, combine egg whites and granulated sugar for the buttercream. Whisk until combined, then place the bowl over a double boiler. Whisk constantly until the mixture reaches 160°F and feels warm.
- Transfer the bowl to your stand mixer and whip on medium-high speed until the meringue is stiff and cool to the touch.
- Switch to the paddle attachment and gradually add the cubed room temperature butter to the meringue. Mix until smooth and creamy, then add in the vanilla bean paste.
- Begin assembling your cake by placing one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Brush the top with 2-3 Tbsp of the prepared Earl Grey syrup.
- Spread approximately 2/3 cup of the buttercream evenly over that layer, then repeat with the remaining layers. Apply a thin crumb coat on the outside and chill for 20 minutes.
- Once chilled, pipe decorative rosettes on top using a 1M tip for a beautiful finish.