Karak Tea Cake

As I sat sipping my favorite cup of tea one chilly afternoon, I couldn’t help but think of a warm, inviting dessert that could complement that rich flavor. That’s when I decided to create this delightful Karak Tea Cake. It’s inspired by the aromatic spices and creamy textures of traditional Karak tea, paired with a luscious spiced apple filling that adds a touch of sweetness. Imagine the comforting scent wafting through your kitchen as you bake this cake. Every bite is a journey through flavors—rich cream cheese frosting, aromatic cardamom, and the familiar warmth of spiced apples come together in this dessert that feels like a warm embrace. Whether it’s an afternoon gathering with friends or a cozy family dinner, this Karak Tea Cake is sure to impress. The secret lies in the careful balance of spices and the creamy frosting, making it a standout treat. So come along with me, and let’s indulge in this lovely cake that brings a touch of warmth to any occasion.

Ingredient List for Karak Tea Cake

The ingredients for this Karak Tea Cake are thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role in the final outcome. The star of the show, the black tea, infuses the cake with a rich depth, while the spices give it warmth. The apples add moisture and sweetness, making it an irresistible treat.

• 2 Eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the cake.
• 11 tbsp Caster Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• 11 tbsp Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 ⅕ cups Flour: The base for the cake structure.
• 1 Black Tea Teabag: Provides that signature Karak flavor.
• ½ tsp Cinnamon Powder: Adds warmth and spice.
• ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a slightly sweet flavor.
• 1/8 tsp Ground Cloves: Adds a distinct taste and aroma.
• ¼ tsp Cardamom Powder: Infuses the cake with a unique floral note.
• 1 ½ tsp Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise.
• ½ tsp Salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 2 cups Water: Used to brew the tea.
• 5 tbsp Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds richness to the tea and cake.
• 2-3 Whole Cloves: Infuse the tea with flavor.
• ½ Stick Cinnamon: Enhances the tea blend.
• 4 Cardamom Pods: Adds a fragrant aroma to the tea.
• 3 Black Tea Teabags: Used for the rich tea flavor in the cake.
• 4-5 Large Apples: Provides sweetness and moisture to the filling.
• ¼ cup Sugar: Sweetens the apple filling.
• Zest and Juice from Half Lemon: Brightens the apple flavor.
• 1 tsp Cinnamon Powder: Use in the apple filling for a spiced flavor.
• 1 tsp Ground Ginger: Adds a warm spice to the apples.
• 7 oz Softened Butter: For the frosting, adds richness.
• 12 oz Cream Cheese: Forms the base of the creamy frosting.
• 2 tbsp Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness to the frosting.
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar: To achieve the right frosting consistency.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Flavoring for the frosting.
• 1 tsp Cardamom Powder: For the frosting, enhances the flavor.

Recipe Directions for Karak Tea Cake

Making the Karak Tea Cake is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a scrumptious outcome. Trust me; you’ll want to savor every moment of this baking adventure!

1. In a saucepan, combine water, sweetened condensed milk, whole cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, and then lower the heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it extracts all the flavors from the spices and creates a rich base. Remove the saucepan from the heat, then add the black tea teabags. Allow the tea to steep for 5 minutes, then strain the mixture into a jug. Set it aside to cool completely—some for the cake, and the rest you can enjoy hot while you continue with your baking.

2. Preheat your oven to 180° C (356° F). This ensures the cake will bake evenly and rise perfectly. While waiting, gather your mixing bowls and ingredients for the cake.

3. In an electric mixer, add eggs, caster sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip these ingredients together until the mixture becomes creamy and has doubled in size. This step is vital for achieving a fluffy cake, so ensure to whip it well!

4. With the mixer running on low, gradually pour in the vegetable oil in a thin stream. This incorporation adds moisture to the batter.

5. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and all the spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom. This step not only helps to combine dry ingredients but also aerates the flour which is essential for a light cake.

6. Take the black tea teabag, empty its contents, and grind the tea leaves into a fine powder. You can use a mortar and pestle, or if you don’t have one, simply place the tea in a kitchen cloth and use a rolling pin to pound it. Add the ground tea into the sifted flour mix and mix thoroughly.

7. Now, it’s time to combine! Alternate adding the cooled Karak tea and the flour mixture into the whipped egg mixture. Be gentle and mix just enough to incorporate everything without losing the air you’ve whipped in; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

8. Divide the batter equally into two greased and floured 7-inch (20 cm) cake tins. Make sure the tins are ready so that the cake can rise beautifully without sticking.

9. Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean. The aroma in your kitchen will be truly enticing!

10. While the cakes are baking, prepare the spiced apple filling. Peel, core, and slice the apples into wedges—not too thin. In a skillet, combine the sliced apples, sugar, zest and juice of half a lemon, and any additional spices like cinnamon and ginger. Cook this mixture over medium heat until the apples are tender, which will take about 15 to 20 minutes. Once done, let it cool.

11. Now let’s prepare the frosting! In a mixing bowl, blend together softened butter, cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cardamom powder. Beat until smooth and creamy. This frosting adds a decadent layer to the cake.

12. Once the cakes are baked and a skewer comes out clean, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the tins for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

13. After the cakes have cooled, level the tops using a serrated knife. Place the first layer on a cake plate, then spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of your cream cheese frosting over the top. Next, layer half of the cooled spiced apple filling on top of the frosting.

14. Now take the second cake layer and place it upside down over the first layer with apples. Spread another 2 to 3 tablespoons of frosting on top and smooth it out. Then, cover the entire cake with a crumb layer of frosting—this is where your creativity can shine!

15. For a finishing touch, you can add food coloring to remaining frosting, place it in a piping bag, and decorate the cake as you like! Finally, top it off with the remaining apple filling. This cake is visually stunning and will surely be the centerpiece of any table.

16. Refrigerate the cake for about 1 hour before serving. This helps the frosting set and makes it easier to slice. Enjoy this delicious Karak Tea Cake with your friends and family!

Making Adjustments

Making adjustments to your Karak Tea Cake can elevate your baking experience. Here are some tips to help you personalize this recipe to your liking!

• Storage: To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay good for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this cake by wrapping individual layers in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Pairing: Serve your Karak Tea Cake with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. It pairs beautifully with creamy drinks.
• Variations: Feel free to swap out the apples for other fruits like pears or quince, as mentioned in the notes. This can give you a different flavor experience.
• Decorating: Get creative with your frosting decor! Use fresh fruits, nuts, or edible flowers to enhance the presentation of your cake.
• Serving Temperature: You can serve the cake chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

Great Combinations for Karak Tea Cake

When it comes to serving your Karak Tea Cake, there are countless delightful combinations to enjoy. Here are some suggestions:

• Afternoon Tea: This cake is a perfect addition to your afternoon tea spread, served alongside scones or finger sandwiches.
• Family Gatherings: Make it the centerpiece of your family dinner or gatherings during holidays like Thanksgiving or fall celebrations.
• Seasonal Occasions: The warm spices make it an excellent choice for festive occasions, especially in the fall.
• Coffee Break: Pair it with your favorite coffee or chai for a rejuvenating coffee break.
• Picnics: Slice it and pack it for a picnic. It travels well and can be enjoyed at room temperature.
• Storage Tips: After serving, any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Karak Tea Cake is a unique blend of flavors that celebrates the warmth of spices and the richness of tea. This cake not only tastes incredible but also brings people together, making it a wonderful addition to any gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones – they’ll appreciate the effort and enjoy every delicious bite!

Karak Tea Cake

The ultimate dessert for tea lovers! This Karak Tea Cake blends the rich flavors of black tea with spiced apples and creamy frosting, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Experience the warmth of spices and the comfort of cake in every bite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 eggs Eggs
• 11 tbsp Caster Sugar
• 11 tbsp Vegetable Oil
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 ⅕ cups Flour
• 1 teabag Black Tea Teabag
• ½ tsp Cinnamon Powder
• ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp Ground Cloves
• ¼ tsp Cardamom Powder
• 1 ½ tsp Baking Powder
• ½ tsp Salt
• 2 cups Water
• 5 tbsp Sweetened Condensed Milk
• 2-3 whole Whole Cloves
• ½ stick Cinnamon
• 4 pods Cardamom
• 3 teabags Black Tea Teabags
• 4-5 large Apples
• ¼ cup Sugar
• 1/2 lemon Zest and Juice from Half Lemon
• 1 tsp Cinnamon Powder
• 1 tsp Ground Ginger
• 7 oz Softened Butter
• 12 oz Cream Cheese
• 2 tbsp Sweetened Condensed Milk
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 tsp Cardamom Powder

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Oven
• Blender
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. In a saucepan, combine water, sweetened condensed milk, whole cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, and then lower the heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat, then add the black tea teabags. Allow the tea to steep for 5 minutes, then strain the mixture into a jug. Set it aside to cool completely—some for the cake, and the rest you can enjoy hot while you continue with your baking.
2. Preheat your oven to 180° C (356° F). This ensures the cake will bake evenly and rise perfectly. While waiting, gather your mixing bowls and ingredients for the cake.
3. In an electric mixer, add eggs, caster sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip these ingredients together until the mixture becomes creamy and has doubled in size. This step is vital for achieving a fluffy cake, so ensure to whip it well!
4. With the mixer running on low, gradually pour in the vegetable oil in a thin stream. This incorporation adds moisture to the batter.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and all the spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom. This step not only helps to combine dry ingredients but also aerates the flour which is essential for a light cake.
6. Take the black tea teabag, empty its contents, and grind the tea leaves into a fine powder. You can use a mortar and pestle, or if you don’t have one, simply place the tea in a kitchen cloth and use a rolling pin to pound it. Add the ground tea into the sifted flour mix and mix thoroughly.
7. Now, it's time to combine! Alternate adding the cooled Karak tea and the flour mixture into the whipped egg mixture. Be gentle and mix just enough to incorporate everything without losing the air you've whipped in; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
8. Divide the batter equally into two greased and floured 7-inch (20 cm) cake tins. Make sure the tins are ready so that the cake can rise beautifully without sticking.
9. Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean. The aroma in your kitchen will be truly enticing!
10. While the cakes are baking, prepare the spiced apple filling. Peel, core, and slice the apples into wedges—not too thin. In a skillet, combine the sliced apples, sugar, zest and juice of half a lemon, and any additional spices like cinnamon and ginger. Cook this mixture over medium heat until the apples are tender, which will take about 15 to 20 minutes. Once done, let it cool.
11. Now let’s prepare the frosting! In a mixing bowl, blend together softened butter, cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cardamom powder. Beat until smooth and creamy. This frosting adds a decadent layer to the cake.
12. Once the cakes are baked and a skewer comes out clean, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the tins for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. After the cakes have cooled, level the tops using a serrated knife. Place the first layer on a cake plate, then spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of your cream cheese frosting over the top. Next, layer half of the cooled spiced apple filling on top of the frosting.
14. Now take the second cake layer and place it upside down over the first layer with apples. Spread another 2 to 3 tablespoons of frosting on top and smooth it out. Then, cover the entire cake with a crumb layer of frosting—this is where your creativity can shine!
15. For a finishing touch, you can add food coloring to remaining frosting, place it in a piping bag, and decorate the cake as you like! Finally, top it off with the remaining apple filling. This cake is visually stunning and will surely be the centerpiece of any table.
16. Refrigerate the cake for about 1 hour before serving. This helps the frosting set and makes it easier to slice. Enjoy this delicious Karak Tea Cake with your friends and family!

Notes

• Tip: You could replace the apples with quince or pears.

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Meet Maya Warren

Our main recipe developer and resident forager. My passion is cooking with what the season gives us, whether it’s wild mushrooms from the woods or fresh berries from the garden. I work with Chloe to create our main dishes and with Tessa on new flavor ideas for her bakes. I love the challenge of turning a fresh, raw ingredient into something magical.