From Lady Grey to Matcha: The Ultimate Guide to Baking with Tea
If you're a tea and cake lover, then you're in for a treat! In this article, we'll be showing you how to make delicious cakes infused with tea, perfect for any occasion. Not only will you learn the technique for infusing tea into your cakes, but we'll also be sharing 10 of our favorite recipes for you to try at home. From a Lady grey lemon sponge cake to a matcha green tea drizzle cake, there's a recipe for everyone. These tea-infused cake recipes are sure to impress your friends and family, so grab your apron and let's get baking!
Tea-Infused Cake Recipes: How to Make Cakes Infused with Tea + 10 Delicious Recipes to Try
Learn how to elevate your baking game with tea-infused cakes! Our article shares the techniques for infusing tea into cakes and includes 10 of our favorite recipes to try at home.
How do you Bake with Tea?
Baking with tea involves infusing the flavors of tea into your baked goods. To do this, you can either steep the tea directly in hot liquid (such as milk or water) and use that in your recipe, or grind the tea leaves into a powder and add it to your dry ingredients. The key is to use high-quality tea that complements the flavors of your recipe. Some popular tea choices for baking include Earl Grey, matcha, and chai. Experiment with different teas and recipes to find your perfect combination!
Does Tea in Cake Have Caffeine?
Yes, tea-infused cake can contain caffeine, depending on the type of tea used and the amount that is infused into the cake. Caffeine is naturally found in tea leaves, so any cake made with tea will also contain caffeine. However, the amount of caffeine in a tea-infused cake is typically lower than in a cup of tea, as the amount of tea used in a recipe is generally smaller than what you would use to make a cup of tea. That being said, if you are particularly sensitive to caffeine, it's a good idea to be mindful of the type and amount of tea you are using in your baking.
What Tea Pairs with Tea Infused Cakes?
There are many types of tea that pair well with tea-infused cakes, depending on the flavor profile you're looking for. Some popular options include:
Earl Grey: Earl grey tea is a classic tea that has a floral and citrusy flavor that pairs well with vanilla cakes or chocolate cakes.
Matcha: This vibrant tea known as matcha green tea has a slightly bitter and earthy flavor that pairs well with sweet and nutty flavors, such as almond or pistachio.
Chai: Masala chai is a wonderful spiced tea that includes ingredients like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, pairs well with rich and decadent cakes, like carrot cake or chocolate cake.
Jasmine: A fragrant and floral tea, jasmine pairs well with light and delicate cakes, such as a chiffon cake or a sponge cake.
Rooibos: A caffeine-free tea that has a sweet and nutty flavor, rooibos pairs well with honey and citrus flavors in cakes.
Ultimately, the best tea to pair with tea-infused cakes depends on personal taste preferences and the flavors you want to highlight in your baked goods. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect pairing! Try sipping on a delicious tea lattes with your freshly baked tea cake.
Loose Leaf vs Tea Bags vs Powdered Tea
When it comes to baking with tea, there are some key differences between tea bags, loose leaf tea, and powdered tea that are important to keep in mind.
Tea bags are the most common and convenient option, but they may not have the same quality and flavor as loose leaf tea. The tea in tea bags is usually made up of smaller, lower quality tea leaves that are tightly packed into bags, which can result in a weaker flavor when used for baking.
Loose leaf tea, on the other hand, is made up of larger, higher quality tea leaves that can provide a stronger and more nuanced flavor when used in baking. However, loose leaf tea can be more difficult to work with, as it requires extra steps like straining or grinding before it can be used in recipes.
Powdered tea, such as matcha, is a fine powder that is made by grinding the entire tea leaf into a fine powder. This results in a concentrated flavor that can be easily incorporated into baking recipes, without the need for straining or grinding. However, it's important to note that powdered tea can be more expensive than loose leaf tea or tea bags.
Ultimately, the choice between tea bags, loose leaf tea, and powdered tea depends on personal preference and the specific recipe being used. Experiment with different types of tea to find your favorite flavor combination!
Replacing Water or Milk in Recipes
It is possible to replace water or milk in a recipe with tea to infuse the flavors of tea into your baked goods. Here's how to do it:
Brew the tea: Start by brewing the tea in hot water, following the instructions on the packaging. You can also use loose leaf tea, but be sure to strain it before using.
Replace the liquid: Once the tea is brewed, strain out any tea leaves or bags, and measure out the amount of liquid you need to replace in the recipe. For example, if your recipe calls for 1 cup of water or milk, you would use 1 cup of brewed tea instead.
Adjust other ingredients: Depending on the type of tea you're using and the recipe you're making, you may need to adjust other ingredients, such as sugar or baking powder, to achieve the desired flavor and texture.
It's worth noting that when using tea instead of water or milk, the flavor of the tea may not be as strong as you'd like, especially if the recipe includes strong flavors like chocolate or spices. In this case, you may want to add additional tea leaves or powder directly to the dry ingredients for a more concentrated flavor.
How to Infuse Tea into Cakes: 10 Delicious Recipes to Try
With the subtle aroma and taste of tea, these cakes are a delightful treat for tea lovers, and a perfect addition to any afternoon tea party.
10 Tea Cake Recipes
Making cakes, desserts and sweet treats infused with tea is remarkably easy to do, and I’m sharing with you my favorite 10 (or more) ways to infuse tea into cake…
1. Lady Grey Tea and Meyer Lemon Drizzle Cake
If you're looking for a unique and delicious cake recipe to impress your guests, try making a Meyer lemon drizzle cake infused with Lady Grey tea. This delightful cake combines the subtle citrus flavors of Meyer lemon with the aromatic and floral notes of Lady Grey tea, resulting in a truly delightful flavor. With a moist and tender crumb, and a drizzle of tangy lemon icing, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon tea to a festive celebration. Follow these easy steps to create a beautiful and delicious Meyer lemon drizzle cake infused with Lady Grey tea that's sure to impress everyone.
If you like citrus cakes but prefer to skip the added sugar, butter and gluten, you may like these paleo earl grey, lemon & poppy seed muffins.
2. Tea Cake with Pecans and Sultanas
Looking for a comforting and flavorful cake recipe that's perfect for a cozy afternoon or a family gathering? Try making a farmhouse-style cake infused with black tea, pecans, and sultanas. This delicious cake is packed with the rich flavors of black tea, which perfectly complement the sweet and nutty notes of pecans and sultanas. With a moist and fluffy texture, this cake is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Follow these simple steps to create a beautiful and delicious farmhouse-style cake infused with black tea, pecans, and sultanas that will be a hit with everyone.
This cake pairs perfectly with a mug of hot tea, try having a huge slice of cake with a warming coconut chai latte.
3. Matcha Marble Lime Drizzle Cake
If you're a matcha lover looking for a unique twist on a classic drizzle cake, try making a matcha marble lime drizzle cake. This delicious cake is a beautiful combination of the earthy and fragrant taste of matcha with the tangy and zesty flavor of lime. With a stunning marble effect and a drizzle of tangy lime icing, this cake is a showstopper that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just looking to indulge your sweet tooth, this matcha marble lime drizzle cake is sure to impress. Follow these simple steps to create a beautiful and delicious cake that's as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
You may also love my upside down blueberry & matcha cake - made with lemon icing.
4. Persian Love Cake with a Black Tea Drizzle
Looking for a unique and exotic cake recipe to impress your friends and family? Try making a Persian love cake - with a black tea drizzle. This delicious cake is flavored with fragrant spices like cardamom and rosewater, and is topped with a sweet and tangy black tea drizzle. With its delicate crumb and irresistible flavor, this cake is perfect for a special occasion or as a treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. Follow these simple steps to create a beautiful and delicious Persian love cake with a black tea drizzle that's sure to impress.
If you adore the flavors of a Persian love cake, you may also love this recipe for black tea, rose and cardamom Chelsea buns.
5. Chai Infused Rock Cakes
If you're a fan of chai tea and looking for a tasty snack to enjoy with your cuppa, try making rock cakes with chai tea. These rustic and crumbly cakes are infused with the warm and comforting flavors of chai, including cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. With the addition of dried fruits, these cakes are a satisfying treat that's perfect for any time of day. Whether you're looking for a mid-afternoon snack or a sweet dessert to enjoy after dinner, these chai-infused rock cakes are sure to hit the spot. Follow these simple steps to create a batch of delicious and aromatic rock cakes with chai tea.
6. Chai Spiced Pumpkin Crumble Top Muffins
If you're a fan of pumpkin and chai tea, you'll love these pumpkin crumble top muffins infused with chai tea. These delicious muffins are a perfect blend of warm, autumnal flavors and cozy chai spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. Topped with a crunchy crumble and bursting with pumpkin flavor, these muffins make for a great breakfast or snack option. Whether you're hosting an fall brunch or simply looking for a delicious and comforting treat, these pumpkin crumble top muffins infused with chai tea are sure to satisfy. Follow these simple steps to create a batch of mouth-watering muffins that everyone will love.
Read more tea-pumpkin recipes:
7. Masala Chai Infused Carrot Cake
If you're looking for a flavorful twist on classic carrot cake, try infusing it with the warm spices of chai tea. This chai-infused carrot cake is loaded with sweet carrots, juicy fruit, and crunchy nuts, and it's all tied together with the warm and cozy flavors of chai. The subtle hint of tea leaves in the cake adds a unique and delicious twist to the traditional recipe, and makes for a perfect dessert option during Spring time. Follow these easy steps to make a chai-infused carrot cake that's sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
8. Chai Infused Maple Apple and Blueberry Pie
Looking for a delicious and unique twist on classic apple pie? Try adding the warm and spicy flavors of chai tea to your recipe. This maple chai apple and blueberry pie is the perfect dessert for chilly winter nights, with a rich and comforting blend of sweet apples, tangy blueberries, and warm spices. Infused with the flavors of chai tea and sweetened with maple syrup, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious and comforting maple chai apple and blueberry pie infused with the delicious flavors of chai tea.
9. One Minute Chocolate Matcha Mug Cake
Craving a warm and indulgent dessert but short on time? These one-minute chocolate matcha mug cakes are the perfect solution! With just a few simple, healthy ingredients and a microwave, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying cake in minutes. The rich chocolate and earthy matcha flavors come together for a deliciously unique twist on classic mug cake recipes. Follow these easy steps to make your own one-minute chocolate and matcha mug cakes that are perfect for a quick and easy treat.
If you fancy something a little naughtier, then this 3 ingredient oreo one minute mug cake is going to be right up your street. Made with just 3 ingredients: ice cream, self raising flour and Oreos. You can make it vegan by using dairy free ice cream.
10. Giant Chai and Pecan Sticky Bun
Indulge in the rich, warm flavors of chai tea with this recipe for a giant pecan sticky bun. This buttery, flaky pastry is infused with the spicy aroma of chai, giving it a comforting, cozy feel that's perfect for a chilly winter morning. Topped with a sticky pecan caramel glaze, this impressive bun is sure to be a hit at any brunch or breakfast gathering. And best of all, it's surprisingly easy to make, so you can enjoy the delicious taste of chai in no time!
Bonus Recipe for Christmas: Make a Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake
Indulge in a classic English Christmas treat with a twist. This traditional Christmas fruit cake recipe is infused with bold black tea, adding an extra layer of flavor and aroma. The fruitcake is rich, moist, and filled with candied fruit, nuts, and spices. Perfectly balanced with the bitterness of the tea, it is a must-have for the holiday season. Whether you're a tea lover or not, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table. So, let's get started on making this delicious and aromatic treat!
Get Baking with Tea!
Baking with tea is a delicious and creative way to elevate your baked goods and add a unique flavor twist. By choosing the right type of tea and experimenting with different recipes and techniques, you can infuse your cakes, cookies, and other baked goods with the delicate and complex flavors of tea. Whether you prefer classic teas like Earl Grey and Jasmine or more unique flavors like Matcha and Chai, there's no shortage of options to explore. So go ahead and start baking with tea today – your taste buds (and your friends and family) will thank you!
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It is important to note that any health advice provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or overall health. The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice.