Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe

Cook Time: 50 minutes

This lovely lemon drizzle cake, adapted from a Mary Berry recipe, is not only one of the most delicious cakes you'll ever enjoy, but also one of the easiest. If youre someone who doesn't bake often because of all the steps and techniques, then this cake is for you. There's no sifting, separating, or creaming. Just dump everything in a bowl, mix it up, and youre ready to bake! While the cake is baking, well make the lemon drizzle topping, which requires even less effort than the cake batter. The most difficult part is deciding how much drizzle to add.

Here's the step-by-step guide for making this easy and delicious lemon drizzle cake:

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 lemons, zested
• 2 cups self-rising flour
• teaspoon baking powder
• teaspoon fine salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 4 large eggs
• cup milk
• For the Lemon Drizzle Topping:
• cup granulated sugar
• cup fresh lemon juice

Directions

Step 1: Start by adding the sugar to a mixing bowl. Grate the zest from the lemons and add it to the sugar. Stir it well and let it sit for an hour if possible to intensify the lemon flavor. If you're short on time, you can skip this step.

Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Prepare a loaf pan by lining it with greased parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the self-rising flour, baking powder, and salt. Once mixed, add it to the lemon-sugar mixture.

Step 4: Add the butter, eggs, and milk to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until the batter is smooth and fluffy.

Step 5: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.

Step 7: While the cake is cooling, prepare the lemon drizzle topping. In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth.

Step 8: After the cake has cooled for 5 minutes, poke holes all over the top using a skewer or fork. Then, pour or ladle the lemon drizzle over the cake, allowing it to soak in.

Step 9: Let the cake cool completely to room temperature before removing it from the pan. This will help the flavors set and ensure the cake slices neatly.

Chef's Notes

If you dont have self-rising flour, you can make your own by sifting together 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of fine salt.

If you prefer a more moist cake, feel free to double the amount of drizzle topping. The extra drizzle will add more moisture and flavor.

For the best flavor, I recommend chilling the cake thoroughly before serving. It brings out the flavors and improves the texture.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 431
• Total Fat: 21g (26% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 12g (61% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 123mg (41% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 447mg (19% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 57g (21% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 36g
• Protein: 6g (11% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 5mg (5% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 135mg (10% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (10% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 87mg (2% Daily Value)

Servings: 10

Lemon drizzle cake is a beloved British dessert known for its moist texture and tangy lemon flavor. This simple yet delicious cake has captured the hearts of bakers and dessert lovers alike, offering a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity. Its history, regional variations, and unique characteristics make it a fascinating treat in the world of cakes.

Origin of Lemon Drizzle Cake

The origins of the lemon drizzle cake can be traced back to traditional British baking. It is often considered a modern twist on older recipes for citrus-based cakes, which were popularized in the UK during the 19th century when lemons became more accessible. The popularity of citrus cakes grew as lemons were often grown in Southern Europe and used in various forms, from marmalades to cakes. The drizzle topping was added later, providing a glossy, zesty finish that gave this cake its signature moisture and sharp citrus flavor.

Regional Features of Lemon Drizzle Cake

Although the lemon drizzle cake is widely enjoyed throughout the United Kingdom, it has regional variations depending on local preferences. In some areas, bakers may use different types of sugar or even infuse the cake with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more sophisticated flavor. In the North of England, it is sometimes served as part of a traditional afternoon tea, accompanied by a hot cup of tea or coffee. On the other hand, in the South, it might be served at family gatherings or celebrations, where the cakes refreshing lemon flavor is particularly appreciated during summer months.

Differences from Similar Cakes

While lemon drizzle cake shares some similarities with other citrus-based cakes, such as lemon pound cake or lemon loaf, it stands apart due to its signature drizzle topping. This topping, made from fresh lemon juice and sugar, is poured over the cake while it is still warm, allowing it to soak into the cake and make it incredibly moist. Other citrus cakes, like the pound cake, often focus on a denser texture without such a tangy, wet topping. The lemon drizzle cakes simplicity in ingredients, alongside the refreshing drizzle, makes it lighter and more aromatic than many other citrus cakes.

Where is Lemon Drizzle Cake Typically Served?

Lemon drizzle cake is commonly served as part of afternoon tea, a quintessential British tradition. It is also a popular choice for casual gatherings, birthday parties, and bake sales. The cake is often paired with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries, which complement the citrusy sweetness of the cake. In many homes, this cake is enjoyed as an everyday treat due to its straightforward preparation and refreshing taste. It can also be found in bakeries and cafs across the UK, where it is a staple on the dessert menu.

Interesting Facts About Lemon Drizzle Cake

• The cake is incredibly easy to make, requiring just one mixing bowl, making it ideal for beginner bakers.
• Many variations of the recipe exist, with some bakers doubling the amount of drizzle for an extra moist cake.
• The zesting of lemon and letting it sit with the sugar intensifies the flavor, making the cake even more fragrant.
• While the cake is traditionally baked in a loaf pan, it can also be made in round or bundt pans for different presentation styles.
• Though the cake is often served with a drizzle, it can also be topped with lemon glaze, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter finish.

Whether you're enjoying a slice with a cup of tea or serving it as a dessert at a gathering, lemon drizzle cake remains a timeless favorite. Its origins in British culinary traditions, combined with the refreshing zing of lemon, make it an enduring treat for all occasions.

FAQ about Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe

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