Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll

Introduction

Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll is a refined, flavorful dessert that perfectly blends the soothing aroma of Earl Grey tea with the delicate lightness of a fluffy sponge cake. Infused with the subtle essence of bergamot, this elegant treat offers a touch of sophistication with every bite. The smooth filling complements the airy texture of the cake, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that are both calming and aromatic.

I remember the first time I made this cake roll for a gathering with friends. The moment they took a bite, their faces lit up with appreciation for the fragrant, yet not overpowering, tea flavor. It’s the kind of dessert that feels special, perfect for serving at tea parties, or as a lovely finishing touch to a dinner.

One of the best things about this cake roll is how versatile it is. You can keep it simple with just the Earl Grey flavor, or experiment with variations by adding citrus zest, vanilla, or a layer of whipped cream for extra richness. Whether you’re looking to impress at a celebration or enjoy a moment of indulgence with a cup of tea, this Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll is sure to be a memorable hit.

Perfect for:

• Afternoon tea
• Special occasions (birthdays, holidays)
• Celebratory desserts
• Tea lovers
• Elegant gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll

Here’s why Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll will become your new favorite:

• Aromatic and Flavorful: The infusion of Earl Grey tea in the cake offers a fragrant, citrusy undertone that’s perfect for any tea lover.
• Light and Fluffy: The sponge cake texture is light and airy, creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Elegant Presentation: The beautiful rolled shape and delicate tea flavor make this cake a showstopper at any event.
• Versatile Filling: You can use a variety of fillings, from buttercream to whipped cream, allowing you to customize the dessert to your liking.
• Impressive Yet Easy: Despite its refined appearance, this recipe is relatively simple and doesn’t require special skills to make.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll:

• For the Cake:
  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves (or 2 tea bags)
  • 1/4 cup hot water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Highlights

• Earl Grey Tea: The signature flavor of Earl Grey tea, with its distinct bergamot citrus note, infuses the cake with a sophisticated fragrance and taste.
• Eggs: Eggs help provide structure and moisture to the sponge cake, contributing to its light texture.
• Heavy Cream: The whipped cream filling adds a smooth, creamy contrast to the light sponge cake.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to both the cake and filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll:

Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
2. Brew the Earl Grey Tea: In a small bowl, steep the Earl Grey tea leaves in hot water for about 5 minutes. Strain the tea leaves (if using loose tea) and set aside the brewed tea.
3. Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
4. Beat the Egg Yolks: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 1/4 cup sugar until pale and thick, about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and brewed Earl Grey tea, mixing to combine.
5. Whisk the Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
6. Combine the Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg yolk mixture. Then, carefully fold in the whipped egg whites, being cautious not to deflate the batter.
7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when touched.
8. Cool the Cake: As soon as the cake is done, remove it from the oven. Invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Gently peel off the parchment paper and let the cake cool completely.

Prepare the Filling:

9. Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
10. Fill the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
11. Roll the Cake: Carefully roll the cake up from one short end, using the towel to help lift it. Roll tightly but gently to avoid cracking.
12. Chill: Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

How to Serve Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll

Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways:

• Tea Time: Pair the cake roll with a hot cup of Earl Grey or any other tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Special Occasions: This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration where a sophisticated dessert is needed.
• Gift Giving: Slice the cake into smaller pieces and package them neatly in a box for a sweet homemade gift.
• Dessert Spread: Include this cake in a dessert buffet alongside other light and elegant treats.

Additional Tips for Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll

Here are some tips to ensure your Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll is perfect every time:

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When folding in the egg whites and dry ingredients, be gentle to preserve the airiness of the batter.
• Use Fresh Tea: For the best flavor, use fresh Earl Grey tea leaves or high-quality tea bags.
• Chill the Cake: Allowing the cake to chill after rolling helps it maintain its shape and makes it easier to slice.
• Alternate Fillings: For a twist, try filling the roll with lemon curd, chocolate ganache, or a citrus-flavored whipped cream.
• Decorate: Dust the finished cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for an elegant touch.

Recipe Variations for Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll

Here are 5 variations you can try for Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll:

• Lavender Earl Grey Cake Roll: Add dried lavender buds to the batter for a floral twist that pairs wonderfully with the bergamot.
• Citrus Earl Grey Cake Roll: Mix in some orange or lemon zest into the cake batter for a citrusy complement to the tea flavor.
• Chocolate Earl Grey Cake Roll: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolatey base, and use whipped chocolate ganache as the filling.
• Vegan Earl Grey Cake Roll: Use a plant-based milk and egg substitute like flax eggs, and swap the cream filling with coconut cream.
• Spiced Earl Grey Cake Roll: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that enhances the tea’s aroma.

Freezing and Storage for Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll

• Freezing: You can freeze the cake roll after it’s fully assembled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover cake roll in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days of making for the freshest taste.

Special Equipment for Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll easier:

• Jelly Roll Pan: A 15×10-inch jelly roll pan ensures the perfect size for the cake.
• Electric Mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer is ideal for whipping the egg whites and cream.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents the cake from sticking and makes rolling easier.
• Kitchen Towel: A clean towel helps with rolling the cake while it’s still warm.
• Cooling Rack: Helps cool the cake evenly and prevents sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions for Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll

1. Can I use decaffeinated Earl Grey tea?
   Yes, you can use decaffeinated Earl Grey tea for a caffeine-free version of the cake.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the cake up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve.
3. Can I use a different type of tea?
   Yes, you can substitute Earl Grey with other flavored teas like English Breakfast or jasmine tea, but the taste will vary.
4. Can I make the cake gluten-free?
   Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for the all-purpose flour.

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Conclusion

Earl Grey Tea Cake Roll is a sophisticated and flavorful dessert that combines the delicate taste of Earl Grey tea with the softness of a sponge cake. Its elegant appearance and delicious flavor make it perfect for tea time, special occasions, and more. Whether you enjoy it as a light snack or a showstopper for a celebration, this cake will surely impress your guests and elevate any gathering.