Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake
Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes
Indulge in the sophisticated flavors of our Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake, a delightful treat that combines the aromatic essence of Earl Grey tea with rich, moist cake layers.
The Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake is a perfect blend of tea-infused flavors and a rich buttery cake, ideal for any occasion. Celebrate life’s moments with this unique dessert that brings a touch of elegance.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
Elevate Your Baking Skills
Baking a layer cake is a rewarding experience that allows you to showcase your culinary talents. The Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake not only impresses with its stunning presentation but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more. By mastering this recipe, you'll gain confidence in layering and frosting techniques, which are essential skills for any home baker.
Using Earl Grey tea in your cake and frosting not only adds a unique flavor profile but also infuses the dessert with a subtle sophistication. The aromatic notes of bergamot enhance the richness of the cake, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or afternoon tea. With just a few techniques, you can transform simple ingredients into a gourmet masterpiece.
Perfect Pairings
The Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake is versatile and pairs beautifully with various beverages. For a classic touch, serve it with a cup of Earl Grey tea, allowing the flavors to complement each other. Alternatively, a light, fruity white wine or a sparkling beverage can enhance the cake's citrus notes, creating a refreshing contrast.
For a festive occasion, consider adding a side of fresh berries or a citrus salad. These bright, tangy accompaniments will balance the richness of the cake and make for a vibrant dessert platter. Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also elevate this dessert, providing a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the cake.
Storage and Serving Tips
To keep your Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it for a longer period, consider refrigerating it, but be mindful that the frosting may harden slightly in the fridge. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
When it comes to serving, slice the cake with a sharp knife for clean edges. If you're making this cake for a special event, consider garnishing it with edible flowers or candied citrus slices for an elegant touch. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful aroma, making the cake even more inviting.
Ingredients
Cake Layers
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves, finely ground
Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon Earl Grey tea leaves, finely ground
Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and ground Earl Grey tea leaves, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to frost the sides and top of the cake. Decorate as desired.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of tea in this recipe? Absolutely! While Earl Grey lends a unique flavor, you can experiment with other tea varieties like chai or green tea. Just be sure to adjust the quantity based on the strength of the tea to ensure it complements the cake without overpowering it.
How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan? To avoid sticking, ensure you grease your pans thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, and consider dusting them with flour. Alternatively, you can line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper to ensure smooth removal after baking.
Tips for Success
For the best results, measure your ingredients accurately using a kitchen scale, especially for flour and sugar. This precision will help you achieve the perfect cake texture. Additionally, make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you begin, as this will help them incorporate more easily into the batter.
If you want to enhance the orange flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of orange zest to the frosting. This will intensify the citrus notes and create a delightful harmony with the Earl Grey tea, making your cake even more delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of tea?
Yes, you can substitute Earl Grey with other flavored teas, but the taste will vary.
→ How should I store the cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the layers a day in advance and frost them just before serving.
→ Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Frosting can also be frozen.
Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake
Indulge in the sophisticated flavors of our Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake, a delightful treat that combines the aromatic essence of Earl Grey tea with rich, moist cake layers.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
Cake Layers
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves, finely ground
Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon Earl Grey tea leaves, finely ground
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground Earl Grey tea leaves. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until fully combined.
Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and ground Earl Grey tea leaves, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to frost the sides and top of the cake. Decorate as desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g