Bakery-Style Tea Cake

A Bakery-Style Tea Cake is typically a soft, light, and slightly sweet cake that is perfect for pairing with a cup of tea. It often has a buttery flavor and a delicate crumb, with a subtle sweetness that isn’t overpowering. Here’s a recipe for a classic bakery-style tea cake:

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream or whole milk
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a fresh citrus flavor)

For the glaze (optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk or water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract (and lemon zest, if using).
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and sour cream/milk: Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream (or milk), starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined after each addition—be careful not to overmix.
6. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Make the glaze (optional): While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for a finishing touch, or serve it plain for a more classic approach.
8. Serve and enjoy: Slice the tea cake into wedges and enjoy it with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

This cake is light, tender, and just sweet enough to be a treat without being overwhelming. You can also experiment with flavor variations by adding a little cinnamon, nutmeg, or other extracts if you like. Enjoy!