The Classic Lemon Drizzle Cake is a fabulous cake known for its light, moist texture and bright, tangy flavor. It’s a quintessentially British cake, often enjoyed with a cup of tea. This cake’s simplicity and refreshing taste make it a favorite for many, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and zest.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Drizzle:
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a loaf tin with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Lemon Zest:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the zest of 2 lemons, which will give the cake its distinctive citrus flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually fold in the self-rising flour, alternating with the whole milk. Start and end with the flour. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Prepare the Drizzle:
- While the cake is baking, mix the lemon juice and powdered sugar in a small bowl until smooth.
- Drizzle:
- As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, use a skewer to poke several holes all over the top.
- Pour the lemon drizzle mixture evenly over the hot cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool in the tin for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve the cake with a cup of your favorite tea.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a smooth, even batter.
- Lemon Zest: Use a fine grater or zester to avoid the bitter white pith beneath the lemon skin.
- Drizzle Timing: Pour the lemon drizzle over the cake while it’s still warm from the oven. This ensures that the syrup penetrates the cake, adding moisture and flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
- Earl Grey Tea: The citrusy notes of Earl Grey complement the lemony flavor of the cake. We love Taylors Classic Earl Grey
- Green Tea: A light, floral green tea pairs well, offering a refreshing contrast to the sweet and tangy cake. Our choice is Luxmi Estates Tokyo Green Tea
- Chamomile Tea: For a calming combination, try pairing your lemon drizzle cake with a soothing cup of chamomile tea. We suggest Harney&Sons Chamomile Tea
And Enjoy!
The Classic Lemon Drizzle Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its light, fluffy texture and vibrant lemon flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, especially when served with a nice cup of tea. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or looking for a delicious dessert, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this timeless bake!