Golden Monkey Cake
This is a dense, moist cake characterized by the deep flavors of chocolate, black tea, and spices. One taste of this cake will transport you to a more exotic place! Prep time: 20 min. Cook time: 25 min. (plus additional for decorating.
45 m 2Ingredients
- 1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
- 1/4 c. cocoa powder
- 2 tsp. baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp. ground red pepper
- 2 oz. bittersweet chocolate
- 1 tsp. loose Golden Monkey tea (plus steeped tea leaves--optional)
- 1/2 c. boiling water
- 1/2 c. butter
- 1 1/2 c. sugar
- 3 eggs
- 2 tsp. vanilla extract
- prepared chocolate icing (optional)
Directions
Brew tea in water and steep 5 min. Strain. Keep leaves if using in batter (optional).
In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, and spices. Whisk until well combined and set aside.
In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate and half of the butter over low heat, stirring constantly. Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, remove from heat and set aside.
Beat together the sugar and remaining butter. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla, tea, and chocolate mixture. If desired, add the steeped tea leaves for added texture and flavor. Beat well, being careful not to splatter. Add the flour mixture and beat until smooth.
Pour batter into 2 greased 8" round cake pans. Bake for 25-30 min. at 350°F.
Frost after cakes are completely cool, or simply garnish with sprinkled powdered sugar and ground cinnamon.
