One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dessert that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than the One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake. With its warm, inviting aroma and soft, moist texture, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a special gathering with friends and family. What makes this cake even more appealing is its simplicity—requiring just one bowl and a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup milk or plant-based milk
• 2 large eggs or flax eggs
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt

These ingredients combine to create a cake that’s not only easy to make but also deliciously satisfying.

Instructions

Creating this cake is as easy as mixing everything together in one bowl. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you bake the perfect Cinnamon Tea Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan. This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure even baking.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for the cake’s texture.
3. Add oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Stir until smooth. This should take no more than a few minutes, and the batter should be free of lumps.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. This helps the cake to bake evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time to prevent overcooking.
6. Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to maintain the cake’s moisture and texture.
7. Slice and enjoy! Your One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake is ready to be served.

Nutrition Facts

For those mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per slice, based on 12 slices:

• Calories: 190
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fiber: 1g

These numbers make it clear that this cake is a delightful treat that can fit into most diets without much concern.

How to Serve

The One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in numerous ways, each serving suggestion enhancing its flavors and presentation. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for various occasions, from casual afternoon gatherings to elegant dinner parties. Here are some comprehensive ideas on how to serve this delicious cake to elevate your culinary experience:

1. As It Is

For a simple yet satisfying option, serve plain slices of the One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake with a steaming cup of your favorite tea or coffee. This pairing is perfect for a cozy afternoon treat, allowing the warm spices and sweet notes of the cake to complement the rich flavors of the beverage. Consider creating a serene atmosphere by setting up a small tea station with an assortment of teas, cream, sugar, and maybe even a few biscuits. This approach invites guests to linger and enjoy the moment, making it an ideal choice for casual get-togethers or quiet afternoons at home.

2. With Toppings

Transform your One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake into an indulgent dessert by adding toppings that enhance its flavor and texture. A dollop of freshly whipped cream can provide a light, airy contrast to the dense cake, while a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream introduces a creamy decadence. For a more gourmet touch, consider infusing your whipped cream with a hint of vanilla extract or dusting it with a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you opt for ice cream, toasted nuts or caramel sauce drizzled over the top can add a delightful crunch and additional layers of flavor. This presentation makes the cake suitable for celebrations, such as birthdays or dinner parties, where a touch of sweetness is appreciated.

3. With Fruit

Pairing the One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake with fresh fruits can create a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake. Fresh berries—such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries—add a vibrant color and a burst of tartness that can brighten the overall flavor profile. Alternatively, a warm fruit compote made from seasonal fruits can enhance the cake’s warmth and spice. To make a simple compote, simmer diced apples, pears, or peaches with a bit of sugar and a splash of lemon juice until they soften. Serve the cake warm with a generous spoonful of the compote on top or on the side, allowing guests to enjoy the combination of flavors and textures.

4. With Glaze

For those who appreciate a touch of elegance, drizzling a simple glaze over the One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake can add both sweetness and visual appeal. To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and milk (or a milk alternative) until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. For added flavor, consider infusing the glaze with a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake in a decorative pattern, allowing it to cascade down the sides for an appealing look. This presentation is perfect for special occasions such as brunches, holidays, or potlucks, where a beautiful dessert can make a memorable impression.

Additional Serving Suggestions

• Layered Dessert: Create a layered dessert by crumbling the cake into a glass and alternating layers with whipped cream and fresh fruit. This not only makes for a visually stunning presentation but also allows guests to enjoy a variety of textures in each bite.
• Coffee Cake Style: For a brunch setting, serve the One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake in a coffee cake style. Slice the cake into smaller squares or triangles and arrange them on a platter. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic coffee cake look, and serve alongside coffee or mimosas.
• Mini Cake Version: Consider baking the cake in mini loaf pans or muffin tins to create individual servings. These charming portions are perfect for gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy their own personal cake without the need for slicing.

With these various serving ideas, the One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake can be a versatile centerpiece for any occasion, ensuring that it delights and satisfies everyone at the table.

Additional Tips

Substitutions

One of the great advantages of baking is its inherent flexibility, allowing you to tailor recipes to meet your dietary needs or to utilize what you have on hand. For those following a dairy-free lifestyle, you can easily modify this cake recipe by replacing traditional dairy milk with a plant-based alternative such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Each of these options will impart a unique flavor and texture, so consider your preferences when making a choice.

Additionally, if you require a substitute for eggs, flax eggs are an excellent option. To make a flax egg, simply combine one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens and resembles the consistency of an egg. This binding agent not only helps hold the cake together but also adds a nutty flavor that complements the overall taste of the cake.

If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using natural sweeteners such as maple syrup or agave nectar, adjusting the liquid content of the recipe accordingly. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

Spice it Up

For those who relish a bit of warmth in their baked goods, enhancing the cake with spices can elevate its flavor profile significantly. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves can introduce a delightful complexity that tantalizes the palate. Nutmeg offers a sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of warmth, while cloves provide a bold, aromatic essence. You might also consider adding cinnamon for its warm and comforting qualities or ginger for a spicy kick.

You can experiment with different spice combinations; for instance, a chai-inspired cake could feature cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, creating an inviting aroma and a flavorful experience. Additionally, consider incorporating citrus zest—such as lemon or orange—for a refreshing brightness that complements the spices beautifully.

Storage

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and flavor of your cake. To keep your cake at its best, place it in an airtight container at room temperature. This method will preserve its moisture and protect it from becoming stale. Ideally, enjoy the cake within three days for optimal taste and texture. If you live in a particularly warm or humid environment, you may want to refrigerate the cake to extend its shelf life; just be sure to wrap it securely to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.

When refrigerating, the texture may change slightly, becoming denser; however, it will still be delicious. Before serving, you can let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to restore some of its original texture.

Freezing

If you want to extend the cake’s lifespan even further, freezing is a fantastic option. This cake freezes exceptionally well, making it a great choice for meal prep or for those times when you want a sweet treat on hand without the need to bake from scratch. To freeze, start by cooling the cake completely to ensure that moisture doesn’t condense on the surface during freezing.

Slice the cake into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring that no air can escape, which helps to prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped slices into a freezer bag or an airtight container for added protection. This method allows you to take out only what you need, minimizing waste.

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or at room temperature for a few hours. For a warm treat, you can pop it in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This way, you can savor the cake just as deliciously as the day it was baked, even weeks or months later!

Incorporating these tips will not only enhance your baking experience but also ensure that your cake remains enjoyable well beyond the initial baking. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs, exploring new flavors, or mastering storage techniques, these strategies will help you create and savor your cake to the fullest.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

Q: Can I use a different oil?
A: Absolutely! You can use melted coconut oil, canola oil, or any neutral-flavored oil.

Q: How do I make flax eggs?
A: To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. Use this mixture in place of one egg.

Q: Can I add nuts or raisins?
A: Yes, adding chopped nuts or raisins can enhance the texture and flavor of the cake. Fold them into the batter before baking.

Conclusion

The One Bowl Cinnamon Tea Cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its straightforward ingredients and instructions, even novice bakers can achieve professional results. Whether you’re serving it plain or with your favorite toppings, this cake is sure to be a hit. So, next time you’re in the mood for baking, give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious aroma and taste of cinnamon goodness. Happy baking! 🍰

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