Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe

For a gathering, impress your guests with a Lemon Drizzle Cake, renowned for its refreshing citrus flavor and moist texture. Achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness by exploring key ingredients and steps.

Elevate your baking by mastering this classic recipe, ensuring it transforms your next baking endeavor. Discover tips that enhance both flavor and presentation for a memorable dessert experience.

Recipe

Lemon drizzle cake is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Its moist texture and zesty flavor come from the combination of fresh lemons and a simple cake batter.

This classic British cake is often enjoyed with a cup of tea, but it can also be a revitalizing dessert for summer gatherings or a comforting slice at any time of the year. The bright lemon glaze on top adds an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful finish, making it not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

To make a lemon drizzle cake, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The process is straightforward, making it a great option for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.

With just a little bit of preparation, you can whip up this scrumptious cake and impress your friends and family with your baking skills. Follow the simple steps below for a mouthwatering lemon drizzle cake that’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

225g unsalted butter, softened
225g granulated sugar
4 large eggs
Zest of 2 lemons
225g all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
100ml milk
Juice of 2 lemons
150g powdered sugar (for glaze)

Now let’s move on to the cooking steps.

Cooking Steps

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to bring your lemon drizzle cake to life!

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, which gets the perfect environment for baking.

As you mix butter and sugar, you’ll create a delightful base that promises a deliciously moist cake, so let’s get started!

Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F

Before you plunge into mixing the ingredients, make certain to preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is essential because it guarantees your lemon drizzle cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While it may seem like a simple task, it sets the stage for your delicious creation.

Turn your oven dial or press those buttons—whatever it takes to get the heat going! As the oven warms up, take a moment to gather your ingredients, envisioning the zesty goodness that’s about to come together. It’s the perfect time to prepare your baking pan, too. Greasing it will help your cake slide right out after baking, making cleanup a breeze.

You might wonder why the temperature matters. Well, baking is a science, and the right temperature affects the texture and flavor of your cake. A 350°F oven helps create that golden crust while keeping the inside moist and fluffy.

Step 2. Mix Butter and Sugar

Cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it helps create a lovely texture for your lemon drizzle cake.

Grab a large mixing bowl and your trusty electric mixer or a wooden spoon. If you’re using an electric mixer, start at a low speed to avoid sugar clouds, then gradually increase to medium.

As you mix, you’ll notice the butter transforming, becoming creamy and pale in color. This process usually takes about 2 to 4 minutes, but it’s worth the wait! Don’t rush it; the fluffiness you achieve will guarantee your cake rises beautifully and has a tender crumb.

If you’re using a wooden spoon, it may take a bit more elbow grease, but the results are just as rewarding. Mix until you can’t see any granules of sugar, and the texture is smooth and airy.

This moment is where the magic begins, setting the stage for your delightful lemon flavor to shine through.

Step 3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Once your butter and sugar mixture is light and fluffy, it’s time to incorporate the eggs and vanilla. This step is essential as it adds richness and flavor to your lemon drizzle cake.

Start by cracking your eggs into a bowl one at a time, ensuring you don’t get any shell in your mix. Then, add them to your butter and sugar mixture.

Here’s how to do it:

Mix in the eggs: Add each egg individually, beating well after each addition. This helps blend everything smoothly.
Add vanilla: Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until it’s fully combined. The aroma will be delightful!
Check consistency: Your batter should become creamy and smooth. If it looks a bit curdled, don’t worry! Just keep mixing until it’s fully combined.

This is where the magic starts to happen! The eggs will make your cake moist, while the vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Once you’ve combined everything well, you’ll be one step closer to a delicious lemon drizzle cake. So, get ready for the next exciting phase! Enjoy the process—your cake is going to be fantastic!

Step 4. Fold in Lemon Zest

Now, let’s brighten up your batter by folding in the lemon zest! This step adds a burst of fresh flavor that elevates your lemon drizzle cake. Grab your zester or grater and zest a couple of lemons. You want about two tablespoons of that fragrant zest. It’s the key to infusing your cake with that delightful citrus aroma.

Once you’ve zested the lemons, it’s time to fold it into your batter. Take a spatula and gently scoop under the mixture, lifting it up and over. Be careful not to overmix; you want to incorporate the zest without deflating your batter. This folding technique guarantees the zest is evenly distributed, giving every bite a punch of lemony goodness.

As you fold, take a moment to appreciate the bright, zesty scent wafting from your bowl. It’s a sure sign that you’re on the right track!

Once you feel the zest is well integrated, you’ll be ready to move on to the next step. Enjoy this part of the process; it’s where your cake starts to come alive with flavor! Your lemon drizzle cake is going to be a hit!

Step 5. Add Flour Gradually

As you prepare to add the flour, it’s important to do so gradually to maintain the light texture of your batter. This step is essential because it helps to prevent lumps and guarantees an even mix.

You’ll want to fold in the flour gently, allowing it to combine without overworking the batter. Trust me, this will make a huge difference in the final product!

Here’s how to do it:

Sift the flour: Begin by sifting your flour before adding it to the mixture. This introduces air and helps keep your cake fluffy.
Add in batches: Start adding the flour in small batches, about a third at a time. This way, you can mix it in without overwhelming the batter.
Fold gently: Use a spatula to fold the flour in, being careful not to stir too vigorously. This technique preserves the air bubbles created in the previous steps, which is key for a light cake.

Once you’ve incorporated all the flour, you’ll have a smooth batter ready for baking.

Enjoy the delightful process; you’re one step closer to creating a delicious lemon drizzle cake!

Final Thoughts

While baking a lemon drizzle cake can seem intimidating at first, the joy of creating this delightful dessert makes it all worthwhile.

You’ll find that the bright, zesty flavor of lemon combined with the sweetness of the drizzle brings a smile to anyone’s face. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home.

Don’t worry if it’s your first time; every step is an opportunity to learn and grow your baking skills. Start by gathering your ingredients and following the recipe closely.

Before you know it, you’ll have a beautifully baked cake that’s sure to impress.

Remember, the key to success is patience. Allow your cake to cool properly before drizzling that luscious glaze over the top.

The result will be a moist, flavorful cake that’s bursting with lemony goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice Instead of Fresh Lemons?

Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons. Just keep in mind that fresh juice often has a brighter flavor, so adjust your quantity to achieve the desired taste in your recipe.

How Should I Store Leftover Lemon Drizzle Cake?

After you’ve enjoyed your cake, wrap it in plastic wrap or foil, and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for several days. Just remember to share, ’cause it’s hard to resist!

Can I Freeze Lemon Drizzle Cake?

Yes, you can freeze lemon drizzle cake! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer. Enjoy!

What Can I Use as a Lemon Substitute?

If you’ve ever run out of lemons unexpectedly, you can use lemon juice concentrate, lime juice, or even vinegar as substitutes. They’ll add a tangy flavor, though it might differ slightly from fresh lemons.

How Long Does Lemon Drizzle Cake Stay Fresh?

Lemon drizzle cake stays fresh for about three to four days at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. If you refrigerate it, it can last up to a week, maintaining its flavor and moisture.

Conclusion

Bake a Lemon Drizzle Cake that’s sure to impress at any gathering! With its perfect blend of sweetness and tang, each bite feels like a burst of sunshine.

Don’t delay—make this delightful treat today and hear the raves from friends and family. It’s more than dessert; it’s a slice of happiness!

Grab your ingredients and let the magic unfold. You won’t regret it; your taste buds will thank you!