Lottie Moon Tea Cake is a classic Southern treat that brings a touch of history and sweetness to any table. Named after the legendary Southern Baptist missionary, this cake has been cherished for generations, known for its rich, buttery texture and delicate crumb. It’s the perfect companion for afternoon tea or a cozy family gathering.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create such a flavorful and comforting dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s dive into making a Lottie Moon Tea Cake that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
To make the Lottie Moon Tea Cake perfectly, we need a balance of carefully chosen ingredients that come together to create its signature rich texture and flavor. Below we break down everything you’ll need to bake this classic Southern delight.
Dry Ingredients
Our dry ingredients form the sturdy base of the cake, ensuring lightness and structure:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted for a fine texture
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, to help the cake rise evenly
- ½ teaspoon baking soda, for perfect leavening
- ½ teaspoon salt, to enhance flavors
- 1 cup granulated sugar, finely measured for just the right sweetness
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, for that warm, inviting aroma
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, a subtle spice that complements the cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
The wet components bring moisture and richness, essential for the tea cake’s tender crumb:
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature to activate the baking soda
- 2 large eggs, beaten lightly
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled for moistness
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, to deepen the flavor profile
- 2 tablespoons molasses, adding a hint of Southern sweetness and color
Optional Toppings and Add-ins
Enhance your Lottie Moon Tea Cake experience with these classic Southern touches:
| Add-in | Purpose | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| ½ cup chopped pecans | Adds crunch and nutty flavor | Optional |
| Powdered sugar | For dusting the top | As needed |
| ¼ cup raisins | Sweet bursts of texture | Optional |
| A drizzle of honey | Natural glaze option | As desired |
Use these additions sparingly or boldly depending on your preference to make this tea cake distinctly yours.
Equipment Needed
To bake an authentic Lottie Moon Tea Cake with ease and precision, having the right equipment is essential. We recommend gathering the following tools to ensure a smooth baking process and perfect results every time.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For combining dry and wet ingredients separately |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Ensures accurate ingredient quantities |
| Electric Mixer or Whisk | To thoroughly mix wet ingredients and achieve a light batter |
| Rubber Spatula | For folding ingredients and scraping batter from bowls |
| 9-inch Round Cake Pan | Traditional size for shaping the tea cake evenly |
| Parchment Paper or Non-stick Spray | Prevents the cake from sticking to the pan |
| Cooling Rack | Allows the cake to cool evenly without becoming soggy |
| Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer | To aerate dry ingredients like flour and spice blends |
| Meat Thermometer (optional) | To check internal temperature for perfectly baked cake |
Pro Tip: Always preheat your oven and prepare your pans before blending the ingredients. This small step guarantees even cooking and a perfectly tender crumb in our Lottie Moon Tea Cake.
Having these tools ready helps us stay organized and focused on the rich flavor and moist texture that make this Southern tea cake unforgettable. Next, let’s carry our carefully measured ingredients into mixing and baking with confidence.
Prep Work
Before we dive into mixing our ingredients, it’s vital to handle some essential Prep Work that ensures a flawless baking process and a perfect Lottie Moon Tea Cake texture.
Preheating the Oven
We always start by preheating our oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the cake to bake evenly and develop a tender crumb. Preheating gives the batter the consistent heat it needs from the moment it’s placed inside.
Pro Tip: Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the center to allow balanced heat distribution for our Lottie Moon Tea Cake.
Preparing the Baking Pan
Next, we prepare the 9-inch round cake pan. We can choose either to:
- Grease the pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray
- Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal
This step prevents the cake from sticking and helps maintain its beautiful shape.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Greasing | Use butter or non-stick spray |
| Lining with Parchment | Cut parchment to fit pan bottom |
| Pan Size | 9-inch round recommended |
Measuring Ingredients
Accuracy in our Lottie Moon Tea Cake recipe is key. We should always:
- Use dry measuring cups for flour, sugar, and spices
- Use liquid measuring cups for buttermilk, molasses, and melted butter
- Level off dry ingredients with a straight edge for precision
- Double-check spoon measurements for baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg
“Precise measuring guarantees the perfect balance of flavors and texture in our Lottie Moon Tea Cake.”
Taking care at this stage sets a strong foundation for baking success.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake the perfect Lottie Moon Tea Cake. Precision and timing are key to achieving that moist texture and rich flavor we all love.
Mixing the Batter
- Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sifting aerates the mixture and ensures even distribution of spices and leavening agents.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and molasses until smooth and homogenous. The molasses lends a deep, rich sweetness characteristic of our Lottie Moon Tea Cake.
- Incorporate Dry Into Wet
Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a rubber spatula. Fold carefully just until everything is combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a tough cake instead of a tender crumb.
- Optional Add-ins
If desired, fold in your choice of chopped pecans, raisins, or other preferred nuts and fruits for added texture and flavor.
Baking the Cake
- Prepare the Pan
Use a 9-inch round cake pan greased with butter or lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for an easy release.
- Pour Batter
Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake Specifications
Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Position the oven rack in the center for uniform heat circulation.
| Baking Details | Specification |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Bake Time | 40-45 minutes |
| Pan Size | 9-inch round |
| Oven Rack Position | Middle |
- Doneness Test
After 40 minutes, insert a toothpick into the center. When it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, the cake is done.
Cooling the Cake
- Initial Cooling
Remove the cake from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes to firm up and make removal easier.
- Remove from Pan
Gently loosen the edges with a butter knife if needed, then invert the cake onto the wire rack. Peel away the parchment paper if used.
- Final Cooling
Let the cake cool completely for at least 30 minutes before serving or adding toppings like powdered sugar or honey. This resting period lets flavors deepen and the texture set perfectly.
Directions for Serving
Serving the Lottie Moon Tea Cake with care enhances its rich flavor and nostalgic charm. Here’s how we recommend presenting and enjoying this Southern delight.
Traditional Presentation
The hallmark of the Lottie Moon Tea Cake lies in its simplicity. Traditionally, we serve it at room temperature, allowing the moist crumb and warm spices to be fully appreciated. We suggest dusting the top lightly with powdered sugar—this adds a subtle sweetness and a delicate touch that complements the cake’s texture beautifully.
To maintain authenticity:
- Place the tea cake on a classic white or pastel serving plate.
- Cut into generous wedges, revealing its soft golden interior.
- Add a few whole pecans or a sprig of fresh mint for a rustic visual appeal.
This timeless presentation invites guests to savor every bite with a cup of steaming tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Lottie Moon Tea Cake experience with these thoughtful serving ideas:
| Serving Option | Description | Complementary Beverage |
|---|---|---|
| Classic with Honey Drizzle | Drizzle warm honey over cake slices for added sweetness and moisture. | Black tea or chai |
| With Whipped Cream and Berries | Top slices with fresh whipped cream and seasonal berries for freshness. | Earl Grey or green tea |
| Toasted Pecan Garnish | Sprinkle toasted pecans on each serving for crunch and nutty contrast. | Coffee or spiced latte |
| Warmed with Butter | Spread softened butter on warm slices to enhance richness and softness. | Hot cocoa or milk tea |
For a more decadent treat, try warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This fusion of warm spice cake and cool cream creates an unforgettable balance that’s perfect for dessert.
Remember, the beauty of the Lottie Moon Tea Cake is its versatility. We encourage experimenting with these serving methods to find your beloved way to enjoy this Southern classic.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper storage and make-ahead planning are key to enjoying the Lottie Moon Tea Cake at its freshest and most flavorful. Here’s how we keep this Southern classic in perfect condition for later indulgence.
Storing Fresh Lottie Moon Tea Cake
- Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before storing to prevent condensation.
- Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator wrapped tightly; it will stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Freezing the Tea Cake
- To freeze, wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for extra protection.
- Place it in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
Make-Ahead Preparation Tips
- We recommend baking the Lottie Moon Tea Cake a day in advance—this allows the flavors to meld and the texture to develop fully.
- If using optional toppings like powdered sugar or nuts, add these just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Keep any add-ins like chopped pecans separate if preparing the batter early; fold them in just before baking.
| Storage Method | Duration | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Wrap tightly, cool completely |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Use airtight container or plastic wrap |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Double-wrap, thaw overnight |
“For the best experience, always serve the tea cake at room temperature to bring out its rich, moist texture and delicate spices.“
By following these storage and make-ahead recommendations, we ensure that every slice of our Lottie Moon Tea Cake delights with freshness and true Southern charm.
Conclusion
Lottie Moon Tea Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of Southern tradition that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe we can all enjoy making and sharing. Whether served plain or with your favorite toppings, this tea cake promises a delicious experience every time.
Give it a try and discover how this timeless treat can become a cherished part of your baking repertoire. We’re confident that once you taste it, Lottie Moon Tea Cake will hold a special place in your heart and kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Lottie Moon Tea Cake?
Lottie Moon Tea Cake is a traditional Southern dessert named after a famous missionary. It’s a moist, spiced cake ideal for tea time or gatherings, known for its simple recipe and comforting texture.
What ingredients are needed to make Lottie Moon Tea Cake?
The cake requires dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, plus wet ingredients such as buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and molasses. Optional add-ins include pecans, raisins, and honey.
What equipment do I need to bake this cake?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring tools, an electric mixer or whisk, a rubber spatula, a 9-inch round cake pan, parchment paper or non-stick spray, a cooling rack, and a sifter or fine mesh strainer.
How do I prepare the oven and cake pan?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rack in the center. Grease the cake pan well or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking for even baking.
How long should I bake the Lottie Moon Tea Cake?
Bake the cake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean when the cake is done.
Can I customize the cake?
Yes, you can fold in add-ins like chopped pecans or raisins before baking and top the cake with powdered sugar, honey, whipped cream, or fresh fruit to suit your taste.
How should I serve this tea cake?
Serve at room temperature, lightly dusted with powdered sugar. Cut into wedges and garnish with pecans or mint. For a treat, try warm slices with butter or vanilla ice cream.
How do I store leftover Lottie Moon Tea Cake?
Store cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerated for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Add toppings just before serving.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, baking it a day ahead enhances flavor and texture. Keep it covered and add toppings fresh before serving for the best experience.
What makes this tea cake different from other cakes?
Its mix of warm spices, molasses, and buttermilk creates a unique rich flavor and moist texture, along with a simple recipe that’s beginner-friendly and perfect for Southern-style gatherings.