Description
Experience the charm of Victorian London with Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes. These delicate and buttery tea cakes blend traditional British baking techniques with a literary twist, perfect for afternoon tea or a cozy reading session inspired by the adventures of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar for a ‘London fog’ effect, these treats bring a taste of 221B Baker Street to your table.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents and flavor.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, which creates a tender, flaky texture.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the large egg, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture will bind the dry ingredients together and add moisture and flavor.
- Combine and Knead: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring to combine. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently 4-5 times to bring it together without overworking it, preserving the delicate crumb.
- Roll and Cut: Roll the dough out to approximately 1/2-inch thickness with a rolling pin. Using a 2-inch round cutter, cut out the tea cakes. This uniform size helps them bake evenly.
- Bake: Arrange the cut dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake the tea cakes in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the tea cakes to cool completely on a wire rack. Just before serving, dust them generously with powdered sugar to achieve the ‘London fog’ look and enhance their sweetness.
Notes
- Use cold unsalted butter directly from the refrigerator to ensure the tea cakes have a tender, flaky texture.
- Do not overwork the dough to keep the tea cakes light and tender rather than tough or dense.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain the delicate ‘London fog’ effect and prevent it from melting.
- Pairs exceptionally well with a cup of traditional Earl Grey tea for an authentic Victorian experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
