π°ππ₯ͺ Apricot Sandwich Tea Cakes π°ππ₯ͺ
What is it?
Apricot Sandwich Tea Cakes are delightful and dainty treats that are perfect for afternoon tea or any special occasion. They consist of two soft and buttery cake layers with a sweet apricot jam filling in between, often dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. These cakes are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a lovely addition to any tea time spread.
History:
The history of Apricot Sandwich Tea Cakes is rooted in traditional British tea time customs. Tea time has been a beloved tradition in the United Kingdom for centuries, dating back to the 17th century. During the Victorian era, afternoon tea became especially popular, and various cakes and pastries, including sandwich cakes like this one, were created to accompany the tea. While the exact origin of Apricot Sandwich Tea Cakes is unclear, they are a delightful evolution of these tea time traditions.
Components:
- Cake Layers: These are soft and buttery sponge cakes. They are not too sweet and serve as the foundation of the tea cake.
- Apricot Jam Filling: Apricot jam is used to sandwich the cake layers together. Its natural sweetness and fruity flavor complement the cake layers perfectly.
- Powdered Sugar: To dust the top of the cakes for a touch of sweetness and a decorative finish.
Steps to Prepare:
Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup apricot jam
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
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In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
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Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans and smooth the tops.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Once the cakes are cool, spread a layer of apricot jam on one of the cake layers.
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Place the second cake layer on top of the jam-covered layer, creating a sandwich.
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Dust the top of the sandwich cake with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
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Slice and serve your Apricot Sandwich Tea Cake with a cup of your favorite tea.
Enjoy your delightful Apricot Sandwich Tea Cakes with your loved ones!
These tea cakes are a perfect way to indulge in a bit of British tradition and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply looking for a special treat, these cakes are sure to please. π°ππ₯ͺβ
I don’t have real-time access to specific nutrition databases, but I can provide some general information about the nutrition facts and health considerations for Apricot Sandwich Tea Cakes.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Total Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 7-9g
- Cholesterol: 70-90mg
- Sodium: 150-200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugars: 20-25g
- Protein: 3-4g
Health Considerations:
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Moderation: Apricot Sandwich Tea Cakes are a delightful treat, but they are not low in calories or sugar. Enjoy them in moderation as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack.
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Saturated Fat: These cakes contain saturated fat from butter, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. High saturated fat intake can contribute to heart health issues.
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Sugar: The apricot jam filling and powdered sugar contribute to the overall sugar content. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain and other health problems. It’s essential to monitor your sugar intake.
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Portion Size: Be mindful of portion sizes. Smaller servings can help control calorie and sugar intake.
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Balanced Diet: Enjoy these tea cakes as part of a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
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Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Be aware of any allergies or dietary restrictions you or your guests may have, such as gluten intolerance or nut allergies, and adjust the recipe accordingly.
Remember that the specific nutrition content of Apricot Sandwich Tea Cakes can vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. If you require precise nutritional information, it’s best to consult a registered dietitian or use a nutrition calculator to analyze your specific recipe.