English Tea Cakes. Recipe

English Tea Cakes Recipe:

History and Fun Facts:
English Tea Cakes, also known as tea cakes or currant buns, are a traditional British treat typically enjoyed with a cup of tea. These sweet, soft, and fruit-filled buns have a long history and are closely associated with British teatime culture.

Interestingly, the term "tea cake" can be a bit confusing as it is used to refer to various sweet breads and cakes across different countries. However, in the context of this recipe, we will be focusing on the British version of tea cakes that are often served during afternoon tea or as an indulgent snack.

Tea cakes have been a popular treat in England since the 18th century, and they were traditionally made with currants or raisins. Over time, variations of tea cakes with ingredients like candied peel, lemon zest, or mixed dried fruits emerged. Today, there are different regional variations of tea cakes throughout the UK, each with its own unique twist.

Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 7g instant yeast
- 75g unsalted butter, softened
- 50g granulated sugar
- 250ml warm milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 150g currants or raisins
- 1 lemon, zest grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Icing sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.

2. Add the softened butter to the dry mixture and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

3. Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the warm milk and beaten egg. Stir the mixture, gradually bringing in the flour from the sides, until a soft dough forms.

4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and leave it to rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

6. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Add the currants or raisins and grated lemon zest into the dough, and knead until the fruits are evenly distributed.

7. Divide the dough into equal pieces, approximately 12-15, and shape each portion into a round bun. Place the buns on a greased baking tray, leaving enough space between them for expansion.

8. Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size once again.

9. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and bake the tea cakes for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Once baked, remove the tea cakes from the oven and transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust them with icing sugar, if desired, before serving.

Similar Inspired Recipes:

If you enjoyed making and tasting English Tea Cakes, there are other British treats you might find equally delightful:

1. Scones: These soft, crumbly, and slightly sweet baked goods are a classic British teatime delicacy. Serve them with clotted cream and jam for a truly indulgent experience.

2. Victoria Sponge Cake: Named after Queen Victoria, this traditional British cake consists of two layers of fluffy sponge cake filled with raspberry jam and whipped cream. It's often dusted with powdered sugar on top.

3. Eccles Cakes: Hailing from the town of Eccles in England, these flaky pastry cakes are filled with sweet currants and spices. They are often served warm as a comforting treat.

4. Bakewell Tart: This traditional English dessert features a pastry base filled with raspberry jam and a frangipane-like almond filling. It's often topped with icing and a cherry.

Enjoy trying out these delicious British treats and let them transport you to the world of English teatime indulgence.

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