Nothing beats the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the house, especially when you’re preparing a delightful treat like a Vanilla Bean Tea Cake. This simple yet elegant cake is perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet addition to any brunch spread. Made with real vanilla beans, this classic recipe elevates your baking game and creates a beautifully fragrant cake that is sure to impress your guests.
**Vanilla Bean Tea Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 vanilla bean
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– A pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan, then line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the milk until it is steaming but not boiling. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise with a sharp knife and scrape out the tiny, flavorful seeds inside. Add the seeds and the whole vanilla bean to the warm milk. Remove from heat, cover, and let it steep for at least 30 minutes to infuse the milk with the vanilla flavor.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Remove the vanilla bean from the milk. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and the vanilla-infused milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the Vanilla Bean Tea Cake with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
This Vanilla Bean Tea Cake is a wonderful recipe to have on hand for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fancy tea party or simply want to treat yourself to a slice of something special, this cake delivers a burst of vanilla goodness in every bite. The subtle specks of real vanilla bean throughout the cake add a touch of sophistication to a classic treat. Enjoy a slice with your favorite cup of tea or coffee for a truly delightful experience.
