There’s something so comforting about the simplicity of a tea cake. No flashy frostings, no fussy fillings—just a tender, buttery slice that tastes like home. This Classic Irish Tea Cake is one of those humble bakes that carries with it generations of tradition, warm memories, and quiet moments shared over a cup of tea.

In many Irish homes, this cake has graced the kitchen table for decades—often appearing when unexpected guests drop by or when the afternoon calls for a little something sweet. It’s a cake tied to hospitality and heritage, a nod to the kind of baking that doesn’t require special occasions, just a kettle on the boil and good conversation.

I still remember the first time I had this tea cake in a cozy cottage on the west coast of Ireland. It had been raining all morning, the kind of cold that gets into your bones, and as I stepped inside, the smell of vanilla and warm sugar wrapped around me like a blanket. That slice—soft, lightly sweet, and just the right amount of crumbly—was like a warm hug. I’ve been making it ever since, tweaking the recipe only slightly, but always keeping the heart of it the same.

Let’s get baking, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple ingredients – Nothing fancy here. You probably have everything in your pantry already.
• Light and versatile – Not overly sweet, this cake pairs beautifully with jam, fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Perfect with tea (or coffee) – Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, this cake turns a simple cuppa into something special.
• Great for beginners – No complicated steps, just classic baking done right.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

HOW TO MAKE CLASSIC IRISH TEA CAKE:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. This simple step makes all the difference when it’s time to turn out the cake—trust me.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins. Take your time—it should look pale and smooth, almost like frosting.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. The batter will start to come together, rich and golden.

Step 4: Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix—you want to keep the texture light and tender.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Dust
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack. Once it’s fully cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar. It’s simple, elegant, and just the way it’s meant to be.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Room Temp Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps create that perfectly fluffy texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cake around the 30-minute mark. You want a golden crust and a soft, springy middle.
• Add a Little Zing: If you like a bit of citrus, a teaspoon of grated lemon or orange zest can add a lovely twist without overpowering the classic flavor.
• Serve It Your Way: While it’s delicious on its own, try it with a spoonful of jam or clotted cream for a traditional treat.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 1 (9-inch) cake
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Irish
• Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES:

This cake is best enjoyed the day it’s made, but it holds up beautifully for a few days if stored properly. It’s also a great canvas for variations—add a handful of berries, a swirl of cinnamon sugar, or a few toasted nuts if you’re feeling adventurous.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per slice – based on 12 slices):

• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 190mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 33g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 4g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! It keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Is this the same as a pound cake?
It’s similar in ingredients, but Irish tea cake is a bit lighter and less dense than traditional pound cake. Think of it as its softer, more delicate cousin.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. If freezing, wrap well and label with the date.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cozy bakes:

• Apple Crumble Ice Cream Cake: A Cozy Fusion of Flavors
• Biscoff Truffles
• Traditional Irish Apple Cake

CONCLUSION

This Classic Irish Tea Cake is a true testament to the joy of simple baking. No bells or whistles—just a moist, buttery crumb, a whisper of vanilla, and the quiet kind of sweetness that makes every bite feel like a pause in a busy day. Whether you’re baking for a loved one, a gathering, or just yourself (you deserve it), this cake is the kind that brings people back for seconds—and stories.

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