Experience the comfort and delight of this traditional Turkish Tea Cake, reminiscent of the recipes our mothers and grandmothers cherished. This unique cake is made without eggs, milk, or yogurt, relying instead on the rich flavors of brewed tea and cocoa, enhanced with a special chocolate sauce that makes it irresistibly moist and flavorful. Perfect for tea time or as a special treat, this cake is as delicious as it is easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This This tea-infused cake stands out with its simplicity and the depth of flavor provided by the brewed tea and cocoa. The added olive oil ensures the cake remains moist and tender, while the vinegar acts as a natural leavening agent to give it the perfect texture. Topped with a rich chocolate sauce, this cake is a wonderful blend of traditional tastes and comforting textures.
Perfect Occasion Ideal for gatherings, family teas, or as a nostalgic dessert after a meal, this Turkish Tea Cake fits beautifully into any setting. It’s also perfect for sharing with friends and family during holidays or celebrations, offering a slice of heritage and the warmth of home-baked goodness.
Decoration Tips
- Sprinkle the top with crushed nuts or sesame seeds before baking for a crunchy texture.
- Drizzle additional melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top after baking for a more decadent presentation.
- Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fruit compote for extra flair.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup brewed tea
- 1 to 1.5 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2.5 cups flour (may need an additional 1-2 tablespoons)
- 1 packet baking powder
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- Vanilla extract to taste
- Optional: chocolate chips for topping
- For the Sauce:
- 1.5 cups water
- 50g chocolate
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, mix together water, brewed tea, sugar, cocoa powder, olive oil, flour, baking powder, vinegar, and vanilla. Stir until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and pourable. Reserve about 1 cup of this batter for the sauce.
- Bake the Cake: Grease and flour a cake pan (preferably 25-26cm). Pour the batter into the pan, optionally sprinkling chocolate chips over the top for added texture and flavor. Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (338°F) for 30 minutes, then increase the temperature to 180°C (356°F) and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes. Perform the toothpick test periodically to ensure it is baked through.
- Make the Chocolate Sauce: While the cake is baking, prepare the sauce by heating the reserved batter and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Be careful to stir continuously to prevent sticking. Once heated, add the chocolate and stir until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Final Assembly: Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, pour the warm chocolate sauce over the top, allowing it to seep into the cake and create a moist, flavorful topping.
Enjoy! Serve this Turkish Tea Cake warm or at room temperature, and savor each bite of this moist, delicious cake that’s sure to remind you of simpler times and sweet memories.
