Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake

Name: Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves, finely ground; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon Earl Grey tea leaves, steeped in hot water for 10 minutes

Highlighted under: Artisan Bakery Recipes

Indulge in the sophisticated flavors of this Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake, a perfect blend of tea-infused sponge and creamy frosting.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T12:37:48.404Z

The Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Infused with the aromatic notes of Earl Grey tea, this cake is both elegant and comforting, making it ideal for gatherings or a delightful afternoon treat.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich Earl Grey flavor with hints of bergamot
Light and fluffy cake layers paired with creamy frosting
Perfect for tea parties or special celebrations

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

The Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience. This cake is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it's a cozy tea party, a birthday celebration, or a sophisticated wedding. The unique flavors of Earl Grey tea elevate this cake, making it a delightful centerpiece that will impress your guests. Serve it alongside a pot of freshly brewed tea for a truly elegant affair.

Moreover, its stunning layered appearance can be customized with different decorations, making it suitable for both casual and formal gatherings. Whether you choose to keep it simple or adorn it with fresh flowers or edible decorations, this cake is sure to be the highlight of any event.

Tea-Infused Delight

Earl Grey tea, known for its distinctive flavor profile, is infused into both the cake and frosting, creating a harmonious blend that tea lovers will adore. The hints of bergamot in the tea add a citrusy note that balances the sweetness of the cake, ensuring each bite is flavorful yet not overwhelming. This infusion technique not only enhances the taste but also adds a unique aroma that fills your kitchen while baking.

By using finely ground tea leaves in the cake batter, you ensure that the flavor permeates the layers, providing a consistent taste throughout. The steeped tea in the frosting amplifies this experience, making each slice a delightful journey of flavors.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake turns out perfectly, it's crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even slight variations can affect the final product. Use a kitchen scale for the most precise measurements, especially for the flour and sugar.

Additionally, be mindful of your mixing technique. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, while undermixing may result in uneven texture. Mix until just combined for the lightest, fluffiest layers. Lastly, if you want to enhance the flavor even further, consider adding a splash of Earl Grey-infused syrup between the layers for an extra kick.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves, finely ground

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon Earl Grey tea leaves, steeped in hot water for 10 minutes

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Layers

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, and mix until just combined. Fold in the ground Earl Grey tea.

Divide the batter between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.

Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated.

Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and steeped Earl Grey tea. Beat until fluffy and smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top.

Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate with additional Earl Grey tea leaves if desired. Slice and serve.

Enjoy your delicious Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake with a cup of tea!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To maintain the freshness of your Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life by several days. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

When it comes to serving, this cake pairs beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or any light herbal tea. The flavors complement each other, making for a truly delightful experience. For an added touch, consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of lemon sorbet to enhance the citrus notes of the cake.

Variations to Try

While the classic Capricorn Earl Grey Layer Cake is delicious on its own, there are numerous variations you can try to suit your taste preferences. For a chocolate twist, consider adding cocoa powder to the cake batter or incorporating chocolate chips for a rich contrast to the tea flavors.

You can also experiment with different types of frosting, such as a lemon cream cheese frosting, which would add a refreshing zing to the cake. For a more indulgent touch, try filling the layers with a fruit compote, like raspberry or lemon curd, which would add a burst of flavor that complements the Earl Grey beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular tea instead of Earl Grey?

Yes, but the flavor will differ. Earl Grey adds a unique bergamot flavor that is signature to this recipe.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use as a substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.