Forget fancy desserts— let's go back to the comforting classics.
For some, Mother's Day is about perfection. But let's face it, perfect is overrated! I always find that the most memorable moments come from the simplest of things. And some of the most enjoyable moments I had with my Mum and my family growing up (and still to this day!) include a warm cuppa, a soft slice (or two!) of cake and the quiet satisfaction of time together.
So instead of sharing a fancy recipe and you stressing over sunken pavlova or why your macarons turned out as macawrongs, I want to share with you a favourite recipe from my childhood, something easy and something absolutely delicious.
Let me re/introduce you to the Cinnamon Tea Cake - a true gem from the Women's Weekly Classic Cakes cookbook, circa 1990. If you grew up in Australia, there is a good chance this one brings back memories of sifting flour, mixing it in and licking the spoon. It’s soft and fragrant with cinnamon sugar, and comes together with basic pantry staples in under 30 minutes.
Ideal for a last-minute afternoon tea or a no-fuss way to show Mum some love.
The Recipe:
Classic Cinnamon Tea Cake (Mums recipe, adapted from The Australian Women’s Weekly Classic Cakes Cookbook)
Ingredients
- 60 g margarine/butter
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- 1/2 cup caster sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 cup plain flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/3 cup milk
For the topping:
- 15g margarine/butter, to brush the cooked cake with
- 1 tbsp caster sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder
Method
- Grease and line a 20 cm diameter cake tin with baking paper.
- Cream margarine and essence, gradually adding sugar, then egg.
Beat till light and creamy. - Stir in sifted flour and milk and beat lightly until smooth.
- Spread into cake pan and bake in a moderate oven (190°C) for
about 25 minutes. - Stand 2 minutes before turning onto a wire rack.
- Brush with the melted margarine and sprinkle with combined
sugar and cinnamon. - Eat immediately. Two slices each –yummy; 3 slices a mistake!
Whether you’re hosting a small morning tea, popping by with a sweet surprise, or simply taking a quiet moment to yourself, this Cinnamon Tea Cake is a gentle reminder: love doesn’t need to be complicated.
Happy Mother’s Day, from my kitchen to yours 💛