Name: Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes for Cozy Afternoons
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon baking powder (ensure it's fresh); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed); 1 large egg; 1/2 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar

A gentle mist hangs in the air, and the sound of an old grandfather clock echoes through the cozy room as I set down my cup of Earl Grey. In this moment, I’m whisked away to Victorian England, where the art of afternoon tea reigns supreme. My favorite indulgence? The scrumptious Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes. These traditional British treats, with their sweet vanilla essence and tender texture, are not only a delightful way to elevate your tea time, but they also offer a gluten-free option that can please a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a literary-inspired gathering or simply craving a comforting snack in your favorite reading nook, these tea cakes will transport you straight to the heart of London’s charm. Curious to see how to make these delightful bites? Let’s dive in!

Why will you love these tea cakes?

Transporting yourself to Victorian London has never been easier! These delicate Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes embody the quintessential afternoon tea experience, perfect for enjoying with a cup of Earl Grey. Versatile and accommodating, they offer a gluten-free option, allowing everyone to indulge. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a sweet vanilla essence, they’re simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a breeze to whip up, making them ideal for both casual tea times and festive gatherings. Don’t forget to explore other treats like our delicious Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes for your next get-together!

Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful tea cakes!

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure for the tea cakes; swap with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cakes and contributes to their tender texture.
Salt – Enhances the flavor, striking a perfect balance with the sweetness.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Unsalted Butter (cold and cubed) – Adds richness and a flaky texture; keep it cold to maintain the ideal dough consistency.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together while adding moisture.
Whole Milk – Helps retain moisture and tenderness; can be replaced with a plant-based milk for a dairy-free treat.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses a warm, comforting flavor that makes these tea cakes shine.
Powdered Sugar – Perfect for dusting, mimicking the iconic “London fog” effect and adding a sweet finish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of baking powder until well combined. This perfect blend forms the foundation for your Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes. Ensure no lumps remain for a smooth texture.

Step 2: Combine Butter
Add 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, similar to sand. This process infuses the tea cakes with rich flavor while maintaining a flaky texture that’s essential for the perfect bite.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1/2 cup of whole milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. This harmonious blend will add moisture and flavor to your dough, ensuring your Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes are deliciously tender.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula. Combine until just mixed, being careful not to overwork the dough, which could lead to dense tea cakes. The mixture should come together quickly, forming a soft, slightly sticky dough.

Step 5: Knead Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it about 4-5 times. This light kneading helps to bring the dough together without developing too much gluten, ensuring your Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes remain light and fluffy.

Step 6: Roll Out
Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a 2-inch round cutter to cut out circles from the dough. As you cut, make sure to place each circle onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gather any scraps, reroll, and cut additional circles to minimize waste.

Step 7: Prep for Baking
Before baking, ensure that the circles are evenly spaced on the baking sheet, about an inch apart. This allows the Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes to bake evenly and obtain a delightful golden color. Reroll any remaining dough to create more tea cakes until all dough is used.

Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the tea cakes for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, as you want a tender and slightly crisp finish.

Step 9: Cool & Dust
Once baked, remove the tea cakes from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, dust the cakes generously with powdered sugar to achieve that classic “foggy” appearance reminiscent of London.

What to Serve with Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes

A cozy afternoon is made even better with the right accompaniments to these charming tea cakes, perfect for a delightful tea experience.

Earl Grey Tea: A classic pairing, its bergamot aroma and gentle flavor complement the subtle sweetness of the cakes beautifully.
Clotted Cream: Rich and decadent, it adds a creamy contrast that enhances each bite of the vanilla-infused tea cakes, making for an indulgent treat.
Strawberry Jam: Sweet and fruity, a dollop brings a fresh brightness, elevating the flavors and providing a delightful textural contrast.
Scones: Serve alongside freshly baked scones for a delightful tea spread, creating a symphony of textures, from crumbly to delicate.

These delightful pairings create the perfect spread for your afternoon tea, inviting loved ones to linger over delightful conversation and sweet memories.

Helpful Tricks for Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes

Precise Measurements: Measuring ingredients accurately is vital in baking to ensure your Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes rise perfectly and have the right texture.
Cold Butter is Key: Keep your butter cold until you’re ready to use it. This is essential for creating the flaky texture that makes these tea cakes so delightful.
Gentle Mixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cakes, so treat your dough with care!
Watch Your Oven: Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the tea cakes as they bake. Remove them once they are lightly golden around the edges for the best results.
Cooling Time Matters: Allow your tea cakes to cool properly on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar. This prevents the sugar from melting and ensures beautiful presentation.

Storage Tips for Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes

Room Temperature: Store the tea cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps retain their delightful texture and warmth.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze your Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes without the powdered sugar for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the tea cakes at room temperature. Dust them with powdered sugar before serving to recreate that lovely “foggy” finish.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, pop the thawed cakes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their freshness and flaky texture.

Variations & Substitutions for Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes

Feel free to explore your creativity by customizing the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these delightful tea cakes accessible for gluten-sensitive friends.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and any dairy-free milk alternative in place of unsalted butter and whole milk, ensuring no one misses out on the fun.
Citrus Zest: Brighten the flavor profile by adding lemon or orange zest to the dough. The zest gives a refreshing contrast to the sweetness!
Almond Extract: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract. It brings a rich, nutty flavor that elevates your tea cakes to new heights.
Chocolate Chips: Stir in some mini chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in every bite. The chocolate adds a luscious texture contrast.
Herbal Infusion: Infuse milk with lavender or chamomile before adding it to the dough for a unique spin that complements afternoon tea.
Spiced Variation: Sprinkle in some ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist. These spices can create an inviting atmosphere as they bake.
Fruity Twist: Fold in finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a chewy texture and bursts of flavor throughout your cakes.

By trying these variations, you’ll create new memories with your tea cakes, reminiscent of moments spent over warm cups of Earl Grey. Don’t forget to check out our scrumptious Philly Cheesesteak Rice or the flavorful Korean BBQ Steak for a complete culinary adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to develop beautifully. If you prefer, you can also cut out the circles and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy these treats, simply bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for the best results. With these make-ahead options, your cozy afternoon tea is just moments away!

Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes Recipe FAQs

What are the best ingredients for making gluten-free Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes?
Absolutely! To substitute for traditional all-purpose flour, I recommend using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour have great options that work well in baked goods. Just ensure that your blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture!

How should I store leftover tea cakes?
For best results, store your Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 month.

Can I freeze Sherlock Holmes Foggy London Tea Cakes? If so, what’s the best way?
Certainly! Here’s a step-by-step guide to freezing your tea cakes:

Allow the cakes to cool completely after baking.
Once cooled, dust them with powdered sugar (optional).
Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Place the wrapped cakes in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container.
Freeze for up to 1 month.
When ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar again for that lovely finish.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Very! If you find your dough too sticky to handle, don’t worry—this can happen! Simply sprinkle a little more flour on your work surface and on your hands while kneading. If it’s still too sticky, you can add a touch more flour to the dough. Just be careful not to add too much flour, as it can affect the texture of your final tea cakes.

Are there any allergy considerations for the ingredients used in this recipe?
Absolutely important! The main allergens in this recipe include gluten (from flour) and dairy (from butter and milk). To make it suitable for those with gluten intolerance, use a gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk. Always read labels to ensure all ingredients meet dietary requirements.