Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake

Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake is a classic British dessert known for its moist texture and vibrant citrus flavor. This delightful cake combines a tender lemon-infused sponge with a tangy lemon syrup, resulting in a perfect balance of sweetness and zest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake is cherished for its simplicity and rich flavor. The harmonious blend of sweet and tart makes it an ideal companion to your afternoon tea or coffee. Its straightforward preparation ensures that both novice and experienced bakers can achieve a delectable result every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Caster sugar
• Large eggs
• Self-raising flour
• Baking powder
• Milk
• Lemons (for zest and juice)
• Icing sugar

Directions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin with baking parchment.
2. Mixing the Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. If the mixture begins to curdle, add a tablespoon of flour to stabilize it.
3. Incorporating Dry Ingredients: Sift in the self-raising flour and baking powder. Add the finely grated zest of two lemons and gently fold the mixture until just combined. Stir in the milk to achieve a smooth consistency.
4. Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Preparing the Drizzle: While the cake is baking, mix the juice of the two zested lemons with icing sugar to create a smooth syrup.
6. Applying the Drizzle: Once the cake is out of the oven, leave it in the tin and prick the top all over with a skewer or fork. Pour the lemon syrup evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to seep in.
7. Cooling: Let the cake cool completely in the tin before removing and slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 10 slices
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Citrus Twist: Substitute lemons with other citrus fruits like oranges or limes for a different flavor profile.
• Poppy Seeds Addition: Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter for added texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
• Glazed Topping: For an extra layer of sweetness, mix icing sugar with a bit of lemon juice to create a thicker glaze and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating as it can cause the cake to become dense.
• Freezing: Wrap the un-iced cake tightly in cling film and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm cake, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a skewer into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising flour?

Yes, use plain flour with added baking powder. For every 150g of plain flour, add 2 teaspoons of baking powder.

Why did my cake sink in the middle?

This can occur if the oven door is opened before the cake has set or if the batter was overmixed, incorporating too much air.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising blend. Note that the texture may vary slightly.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar content?

Reducing sugar may affect the cake’s texture and shelf life. However, minor reductions can be made to suit personal preferences.

Can I add a lemon glaze on top?

Absolutely. Mix icing sugar with lemon juice to create a glaze and drizzle over the cooled cake for added sweetness.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze individual slices?

Yes, wrap each slice in cling film and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw slices at room temperature as needed.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk alternative.

Conclusion

The Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake is a timeless favorite, celebrated for its moist texture and vibrant citrus flavor. Its straightforward preparation and delightful taste make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat after a meal, this cake is sure to impress.

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