There’s something magical about the combination of rich black tea and sweet, fluffy cake that transforms an ordinary afternoon into a delightful escapade. Picture this: a buttery slice of Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake, its delicate aroma curling through the air, inviting you to take a bite. With each forkful, you experience the harmonious dance of citrusy bergamot and velvety vanilla, making your taste buds sing with joy.

This cake isn’t just for Mother’s Day it’s perfect for any occasion that calls for a sprinkle of sweetness and a touch of elegance. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, brunch, or simply indulging in some self-care, this tea cake will elevate your moment to sheer bliss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake is a breeze to whip up, taking less than an hour from start to finish
- The flavor profile balances fragrant tea and zesty citrus beautifully
- Its stunning presentation makes it the star of any dessert table
- Versatile enough to serve at breakfast or as an afternoon treat with friends
Family and friends couldn’t stop raving about this delightful cake during last year’s Mother’s Day brunch it was gone within minutes
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for better structure and texture in your cake.
- Earl Grey Tea: Choose loose leaf or quality bags for the best flavor infusion.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar works best here, adding just the right sweetness without overpowering.
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter helps achieve that fluffy texture we all love.
- Eggs: Fresh large eggs provide moisture and richness to your cake batter.
- Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for that lovely rise.
- Whole Milk: Adds moisture and tenderness don’t skimp on this
- Zest of Lemon or Orange: Brightens the flavor and complements the bergamot beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or baking spray to ensure easy release after baking.
Prepare the tea: Brew one cup of strong Earl Grey tea using either loose leaf or tea bags. Let it steep while you gather your other ingredients, letting those lovely aromas waft through your kitchen.
Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. The mixture should look pale and have a slightly airy consistency.
Add eggs: Beat in large eggs one at a time until well incorporated. This step adds richness and moisture to your batter while keeping everything nice and smooth.
Incorporate dry ingredients: Sift together all-purpose flour and baking powder in another bowl. Gradually add this mixture into the creamed butter mix while alternating with whole milk. Combine gently until just mixed overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Flavor it up: Stir in brewed Earl Grey tea along with lemon or orange zest and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing this keeps the cake light and fluffy.
Pour into pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool before serving: Once baked, remove from oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing trust me, patience is key here
Serve with flair: Slice up that gorgeous Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake, maybe dust some powdered sugar on top if you’re feeling fancy. Serve alongside fresh berries or whipped cream for an elegant touch
Enjoy every bite: Gather family or friends around as you share slices of this delightful cake. Watch their faces light up as they take their first bite it’s pure bliss
You Must Know
- This delightful Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake combines fragrant tea with zesty lemon, creating a moist treat
- Perfect for afternoon tea or brunch, it brings a touch of elegance and warmth to any celebration
- The aroma fills your kitchen like a cozy hug
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by brewing the Earl Grey tea, allowing it to cool before mixing into the batter. Cream the butter and sugar first for a fluffy texture, then add eggs one at a time. Finally, gently fold in the flour and baking powder for an airy cake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add a splash of vanilla extract or a handful of chopped nuts for extra flavor and crunch. You can also swap half the butter for Greek yogurt to lighten up the cake while keeping it moist and delicious.
Storing & Reheating
Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply pop slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best results with your Earl Grey Tea Cake, always use high-quality tea leaves for enhanced flavor
- Be gentle when folding in dry ingredients to avoid dense cakes
- Don’t forget to let your cake cool completely before glazing for better adherence
Baking this cake reminds me of sharing it with my mom on Mother’s Day her eyes lit up with joy as she took that first bite, and I knew I had nailed it
FAQ
What should I serve with my Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake?
Pair this cake with fresh berries or whipped cream for an elegant touch.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day in advance just store it properly.
How can I make my Earl Grey Tea Cake gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.

Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x
Description
Experience the delightful fusion of rich Earl Grey tea and zesty citrus in this Mother’s Day Earl Grey Tea Cake. Fluffy and fragrant, this easy-to-make cake transforms any gathering into a special occasion. Perfect for brunch or afternoon tea, each slice invites you to indulge in a moment of bliss with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup brewed Earl Grey tea (cooled)
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- Brew one cup of strong Earl Grey tea and let it cool.
- In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Sift together flour and baking powder. Gradually add to the butter mixture, alternating with milk until just combined.
- Stir in cooled tea, zest, and vanilla until incorporated.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg