Old Fashioned Tea Ring Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.

Active dry yeast: A leavening agent that helps the dough rise and become fluffy.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and helps activate the yeast.

Milk: Warmed to help activate the yeast and create a tender dough.

Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dough and filling.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.

Brown sugar: Used in the filling for a deep, caramel-like sweetness.

Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy flavor to the filling.

When rolling out the dough into a rectangle, ensure that the thickness is even throughout to promote uniform baking. Use a light dusting of flour on your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten. This will make it easier to roll out and shape into a ring.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making it a healthier option.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be mixed directly with dry ingredients and doesn't need to be activated in water first.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and adds moisture to the dough.

• warmed milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a plant-based fat that can mimic the richness of butter.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and can enhance the taste of baked goods.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.

• softened butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a non-dairy alternative that can be used in the same way as butter.

• To keep your Old Fashioned Tea Ring fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out.
• If you plan to enjoy the tea ring over several days, you can refrigerate it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the fridge. This will keep it fresh for up to a week.
• For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. First, allow the tea ring to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from forming inside the wrapping, which could make the pastry soggy.
• Once cooled, wrap the tea ring tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no exposed areas. Follow this with a layer of aluminum foil to provide extra protection against freezer burn.
• Label the wrapped tea ring with the date to keep track of its freshness. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When you're ready to enjoy the frozen tea ring, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. This will take a few hours, depending on the size of the pastry.
• For a freshly baked taste, you can reheat the thawed tea ring in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will revive its texture and warmth, making it taste as if it just came out of the oven.
• If you prefer individual servings, slice the tea ring before freezing. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can thaw and enjoy a piece at a time without defrosting the entire pastry.
• To add a touch of freshness, consider glazing the tea ring after reheating. A simple powdered sugar glaze made with milk and a splash of vanilla extract can enhance its flavor and presentation.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tea ring on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Warm it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

• For a quicker option, slice a portion of the tea ring and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking to ensure it doesn't overheat.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the tea ring inside and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method helps maintain a slightly crispy exterior while warming the inside.

• To reheat on the stovetop, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place slices of the tea ring in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through.

• For a more indulgent twist, consider reheating slices of the tea ring in a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 325°F (160°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method can give a delightful crispiness to the edges.

• Large mixing bowl: To combine the initial ingredients and mix the dough.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the flour, sugar, milk, and butter accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the yeast, salt, and cinnamon.

• Wooden spoon: To mix the ingredients until smooth.

• Stand mixer with dough hook: Optional, but useful for kneading the dough to achieve a smooth and elastic texture.

• Clean kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises.

• Rolling pin: To roll the dough into a rectangle.

• Pastry brush: To spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough.

• Baking sheet: To place the formed tea ring on for baking.

• Sharp knife: To make cuts around the ring.

• Wire rack: To cool the baked tea ring.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure out flour, yeast, and sugar before starting. This saves time during mixing.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can knead the dough more efficiently than by hand, cutting down on prep time.

Warm milk in microwave: Heat the milk in the microwave for a quicker warm-up.

Pre-soften butter: Leave the butter out to soften while the dough rises, so it's ready to spread.

Preheat oven early: Turn on the oven while the dough is rising the second time to ensure it's ready to bake immediately.