Cinnamon Tea Cake

Introduction

Cinnamon Tea Cake is a charming and comforting dessert that brings together the warm, aromatic flavor of cinnamon with a tender, buttery cake. With a light, fluffy texture and a sweet cinnamon sugar topping, this delightful cake is perfect for savoring alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee. Its simplicity and timeless appeal make it an ideal choice for gatherings, brunches, or a cozy afternoon treat.

The magic of this cake lies in its uncomplicated ingredients and the way the cinnamon’s warmth infuses every bite, evoking a sense of nostalgia and home-baked goodness. As it bakes, the inviting aroma fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that promises something special is coming out of the oven. The combination of cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on top adds a sweet, slightly crunchy layer that complements the moistness of the cake, making each slice utterly irresistible.

Cinnamon Tea Cake is a versatile recipe that can easily be dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of vanilla glaze. For a touch of extra indulgence, consider serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fruit compote.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself, this cake offers a moment of comfort and joy. Its classic flavor and straightforward preparation make it a beloved recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. This Cinnamon Tea Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a sweet invitation to slow down, enjoy life’s simple pleasures, and share a little happiness with those you love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Cinnamon Tea Cake will become a staple in your baking repertoire:

• Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, this recipe doesn’t require any special ingredients, making it easy to whip up anytime.
• Delightfully Soft Texture: The cake is tender and fluffy, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes each bite irresistible.
• Cinnamon Aroma: The warm and comforting scent of cinnamon fills your kitchen while it bakes, creating a cozy atmosphere.
• Quick and Easy: This cake comes together in just a few simple steps, perfect for a spontaneous baking session or when time is limited.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or add a layer of cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.
• Great for All Occasions: Whether it’s a casual snack, a special tea-time treat, or a dessert after dinner, this cake fits every situation.
• Pairs Perfectly with Beverages: It’s the ideal companion to a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, making your break time more enjoyable.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet and mild cinnamon flavor appeals to all ages, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Customizable: You can easily add extras like nuts, raisins, or a streusel topping to personalize the cake to your liking.
• Freezes Well: Make it ahead of time and freeze individual slices for a quick treat whenever you’re craving something sweet.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 10
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbohydrates: 35g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Cinnamon Tea Cake:

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Ingredient Highlights

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for the cake, providing structure.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and flavor, making the cake aromatic and inviting.
• Butter: Contributes richness and moisture to the cake.
• Sugar: Balances the flavors and creates a delightful sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple instructions to create Cinnamon Tea Cake:

Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix the Cake Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in the vanilla extract and milk until combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Prepare the Topping

• In a small bowl, combine the sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping.
• Drizzle the melted butter over the sugar mixture and mix until crumbly.

Assemble the Cake

• Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing it into an even layer.
• Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar topping over the batter.
• Pour the remaining batter on top, spreading it evenly.
• Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon sugar topping over the top layer of batter.

Bake the Cake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the 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.
• Slice and serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite beverage.

How to Serve

Here are some tasty ways to serve Cinnamon Tea Cake:

• Warm with Butter: Serve slices of the cake warm with a pat of butter melting on top for a comforting touch.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: Add a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving to enhance the presentation and sweetness.
• Pair with Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Top with Fresh Berries: Garnish with a handful of fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a fruity contrast.
• Serve with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side or on top for an extra indulgence.
• Drizzle with Honey or Maple Syrup: For a sweeter option, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over each slice.
• Accompany with Ice Cream: Serve a warm slice alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
• Layer with Mascarpone Cheese: Spread a thin layer of mascarpone cheese on each slice for a creamy, tangy addition.
• Add a Side of Applesauce: Pair with a side of homemade or store-bought applesauce to complement the cinnamon flavor.
• Create a Dessert Board: Include slices of the cake on a dessert board with other treats like chocolate squares, dried fruit, and nuts for a variety of flavors.

Additional Tips

To make your Cinnamon Tea Cake turn out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better mixing.
2. Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid adding too much, which can make the cake dense.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and tender.
4. Test for Doneness Early: Start checking the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.
5. Add a Touch of Nutmeg: For extra warmth and flavor, include a pinch of nutmeg in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
6. Line the Pan with Parchment Paper: This will help the cake release easily from the pan after baking.
7. Use a Toothpick to Test Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done.
8. Cool the Cake Completely: Let the cake cool fully on a wire rack before slicing to avoid it crumbling.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: For an elegant finish, sprinkle some powdered sugar over the cake before serving.
10. Store in an Airtight Container: Keep the cake moist by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

These tips will help you achieve a perfectly tender and flavorful Cinnamon Tea Cake!

Recipe Variations

Here are some variations to try with Cinnamon Tea Cake:

• Apple Cinnamon Tea Cake: Add finely chopped apples to the batter for extra moisture and a sweet, fruity flavor.
• Nutty Cinnamon Tea Cake: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty taste.
• Glazed Cinnamon Tea Cake: Drizzle a simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze over the cooled cake for a touch of sweetness.
• Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Tea Cake: Mix in some chocolate chips for a delightful blend of cinnamon and chocolate.
• Cinnamon Streusel Tea Cake: Add a cinnamon-sugar streusel topping made with butter, flour, and brown sugar for a crumbly texture.
• Vegan Cinnamon Tea Cake: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs to make a vegan version.
• Lemon Cinnamon Tea Cake: Add lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Gluten-Free Cinnamon Tea Cake: Use gluten-free flour to make the cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Cinnamon Raisin Tea Cake: Stir in some raisins for a classic combination of cinnamon and dried fruit.
• Spiced Cinnamon Tea Cake: Enhance the flavor with additional spices like nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for a warm, aromatic taste.

Freezing and Storage

Here’s how to store and freeze your Cinnamon Tea Cake:

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment

Here are some helpful kitchen tools for making Cinnamon Tea Cake:

• Mixing Bowls: Various sizes for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Electric Mixer: Useful for creaming butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring flour, sugar, cinnamon, and other ingredients.
• 8-inch Round Cake Pan: A standard size for baking the tea cake, ensuring even baking.
• Parchment Paper: For lining the cake pan, making it easier to remove the cake once baked.
• Cooling Rack: Helps the cake cool evenly and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
• Spatula: Perfect for spreading the batter evenly in the pan and lifting the cake out after baking.
• Sifter: To sift dry ingredients, ensuring a smooth batter and a light texture in the finished cake.
• Pastry Brush: Useful for brushing melted butter over the cake before sprinkling with cinnamon sugar.
• Cake Stand or Serving Platter: For presenting the finished tea cake attractively when serving.

These items will help you create a perfect Cinnamon Tea Cake with ease and efficiency!

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cinnamon Tea Cake:

• Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
  Yes, brown sugar will add a deeper flavor to the cake.
• How do I know when the cake is done?
  A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Can I make this cake ahead of time?
  Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature.
• Can I freeze the cake?
  Yes, it freezes well; just wrap it tightly and thaw when needed.
• What can I use instead of eggs?
  You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs.
• Can I add frosting?
  Yes, cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with this cake.
• Is this cake suitable for breakfast?
  Absolutely! It’s a delightful sweet treat for breakfast or brunch.
• How should I store leftovers?
  Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Can I add more cinnamon?
  Yes, adjust the cinnamon to your liking for a more pronounced flavor.
• What can I serve with this cake?
  Pair it with tea, coffee, or milk for a comforting experience.

Print

Conclusion

Cinnamon Tea Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With its soft, tender crumb and aromatic cinnamon sugar topping, this cake is perfect for enjoying alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee. The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an ideal treat for both novice and experienced bakers.

Whether served as an afternoon snack, a light dessert, or a sweet breakfast option, Cinnamon Tea Cake is sure to become a favorite. The combination of the moist cake and the fragrant cinnamon topping creates a nostalgic flavor that’s both familiar and comforting. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy to whip up when you’re craving a cozy treat or need something special to share with guests.

Enjoy the nostalgic flavors and cozy vibes of this classic cake, and share the joy of baking with your loved ones. I can’t wait to hear how your Cinnamon Tea Cake turns out! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations. Happy baking!