Chef Mitchell preparing Mulberry Earl Grey Cake
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the amazing flavor combination of mulberries and Earl Grey tea while experimenting with desserts in my kitchen. After several trials, I perfected this Mulberry Earl Grey Cake recipe, which has become a favorite among my family and friends. The cake's unique taste and moist texture make it a standout treat at any gathering. I love sharing it with everyone because it reminds me of those joyful moments spent baking."

As a chef with over a decade of experience, I've dedicated my career to mastering American cuisine and desserts. I've created thousands of recipes that highlight the diversity and richness of American flavors. My passion is to inspire others to explore baking and create memorable treats.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Mulberry Earl Grey Cake served on a plate

Why This Mulberry Earl Grey Cake Recipe Works

This Mulberry Earl Grey Cake stands out due to its unique flavor profile that combines the floral notes of Earl Grey tea with the tart sweetness of fresh mulberries. The harmonious blend not only tantalizes your taste buds but also creates an aromatic experience that is truly unforgettable. Each bite reveals the moist texture of the cake, which is achieved through careful ingredient selection and baking technique.

The technique of steeping the tea in warm milk helps release the essential oils and flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the cake. Additionally, folding in the fresh mulberries ensures that they maintain their vibrant color and juicy texture, providing bursts of flavor throughout the cake. This thoughtful approach to layering flavors and textures results in a dessert that is both visually appealing and satisfying.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This will help create a smooth batter and contribute to the cake's even baking. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare Mulberry Earl Grey Cake a day in advance. Once baked and cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This not only helps in setting the flavors but also makes it convenient for any gathering. Just allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and taste.

If fresh mulberries are not available, you can substitute them with other berries like raspberries or blackberries that have a similar flavor profile. Frozen berries can also work; just ensure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the batter. Alternatively, you could use dried mulberries, but it will change the texture of the cake.

To check if your Mulberry Earl Grey Cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, the cake is ready. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, it needs more time in the oven. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.

Yes, you can freeze Mulberry Earl Grey Cake. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Mulberry Earl Grey Cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. A drizzle of lemon glaze can also enhance the flavors. Serve it alongside a cup of Earl Grey tea to complement the cake's flavors for a delightful afternoon treat.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Mulberry Earl Grey Cake can last in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Ensure it is well-wrapped to maintain its moisture and flavor. If the cake begins to dry out, consider serving it with a sauce or whipped cream to enhance its texture.

Absolutely! This cake can be made up to two days in advance. Once baked, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best experience.

To reheat Mulberry Earl Grey Cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of cake on a baking sheet and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds until warm.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the cake turns out too dry, it may have been overbaked or not enough moisture was added.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure you follow the baking time closely and check for doneness with a toothpick. Adding more moist ingredients, like yogurt or additional fruit, can also help keep the cake moist.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the cake lacks a crispy exterior, it might be due to the oven temperature being too low or the baking time being too short.

Solution: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated and preheated. Baking at a higher temperature for the first few minutes can help create a crunchier crust.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked cake can become dry and crumbly, losing its delightful texture.

Prevention: To avoid overcooked cake, stick to the recommended baking time and check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent drying out.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center means the cake has not baked long enough.

Recovery: If you find the center is undercooked, return the cake to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to ensure it doesn't overbake.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior usually indicates the cake was baked at too high of a temperature or baked too long.

Prevention: To prevent burning, check your oven temperature and consider using an oven thermometer. You can also cover the top of the cake with foil if it's browning too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the cake is too sweet, consider adding a pinch of salt or serving with a tart berry sauce.

Too Salty: To counteract a salty cake, serve it with a sweet frosting or glaze to balance the flavors.

Bland: If the cake is bland, consider adding more spices or extracts to enhance the flavor profile.

Fresh ingredients for Mulberry Earl Grey Cake

Essential Ingredients for Mulberry Earl Grey Cake

The key ingredients in this Mulberry Earl Grey Cake are simple yet impactful. All-purpose flour provides the structure, while unsalted butter adds moisture and richness. Fresh mulberries not only add flavor but also create a beautiful presentation. Earl Grey tea leaves are essential for infusing the cake with their unique aroma and taste.

Quality matters when selecting your ingredients. Use high-quality butter for the best texture, and ensure that your tea leaves are fresh for optimal flavor. The fresher the mulberries, the more vibrant their taste will be in the cake. Investing in good ingredients will elevate your final product.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • All-Purpose Flour: For the best texture, sift the all-purpose flour before measuring. This helps aerate the flour, resulting in a lighter cake. If you want a more tender crumb, consider replacing a portion of the all-purpose flour with cake flour.
  • Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in your recipe. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, which helps incorporate air for a light cake.
  • Earl Grey Tea Leaves: Choose high-quality Earl Grey tea leaves that offer a robust flavor. Loose-leaf tea tends to provide a richer taste than tea bags. You can experiment with different brands to find the one you love most.
Cooking process for Mulberry Earl Grey Cake

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Baking Mulberry Earl Grey Cake is a rewarding process that combines several essential techniques. Start by properly preparing your ingredients, ensuring they are at room temperature. This allows for better mixing and a more uniform batter. Pay close attention to the consistency of your batter, as it should be smooth and slightly thick.

Achieving perfect results hinges on monitoring your oven temperature and baking time. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy, and always check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off. Allowing the cake to cool gradually will help it maintain its structure and prevent cracking.

Key Technique for Perfect Mulberry Earl Grey Cake

The most critical technique for this cake is steeping the Earl Grey tea leaves in warm milk. This process extracts the essential flavors and oils from the tea, ensuring that they infuse the cake with their aromatic essence. By allowing the tea to steep properly, you enhance the overall taste of the cake and create a rich, flavorful dessert.

Mulberry Earl Grey Cake

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
    Sifted
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
    For consistency
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    For brightness
  • Zest of 1 lemon
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    Sifted
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
    Softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 4 large eggs
    At room temperature
  • 1/4 cup milk
    Warm
  • 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves
    Loose leaf
  • 1 cup fresh mulberries
    Washed
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    For leavening
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    For leavening
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • Zest of 1 lemon
    For flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
    For flavor

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

  2. Prepare Tea Infusion

    In a small saucepan, heat the milk until warm. Remove from heat, add the Earl Grey tea leaves, and let steep for 10 minutes.

  3. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  4. Cream Butter and Sugar

    In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

  5. Add Eggs and Flavorings

    Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts, and lemon zest.

  6. Combine Mixtures

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the tea-infused milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.

  7. Fold in Mulberries

    Gently fold in the fresh mulberries until evenly distributed.

  8. Bake the Cake

    Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  9. Cool and Serve

    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or your favorite frosting.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store your Mulberry Earl Grey Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. The cake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cake at room temperature, optionally accompanied by whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a citrusy twist, drizzle with lemon glaze or garnish with fresh mulberries. Pairing with a cup of Earl Grey tea enhances the overall experience.

Recipe Variations

You can experiment with this recipe by substituting different fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, depending on what is in season. Additionally, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.