When it comes to capturing the essence of a perfect afternoon, few treats can rival the simple yet delightful lemon drizzle cake. The bright, zesty flavor of lemons baked into a light and moist cake seems to bring a moment of pure joy to any occasion. And if you’re looking for the ultimate lemon drizzle cake experience, look no further than Mary Berry’s legendary recipe.
Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a culinary masterpiece that infuses your kitchen with a burst of sunshine, regardless of the weather outside. With its easy-to-follow steps and use of simple store cupboard ingredients, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your loved ones. So, why not indulge in the tangy and sweet delight of Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake for your next baking adventure?
Ingredients
For this delicious Lemon Drizzle Cake recipe, you will need the following high-quality ingredients:
- Large eggs, at room temperature
- Unsalted butter, softened but not melted
- Caster sugar
- Self-rising flour
- Baking soda
- Whole milk
- Lemon zest
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Equipment Needed
For preparing Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake recipe, you will need the following equipment to make the baking process smooth and efficient:
Baking Equipment:
- 2 lb loaf tin
- Parchment paper
Mixing Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Zester or fine grater
Measuring Equipment:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen scale
- Lemon juicer (optional but recommended for extracting fresh lemon juice)
- Cooling rack
Having these essential baking tools and equipment ready before starting your Lemon Drizzle Cake recipe will ensure a seamless baking experience.
Instructions
Prep the Pan
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the cake later.
Make the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, flour, softened butter, eggs, lemon zest, and baking powder. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and ensure it is evenly spread.
- Place the cake pan in the middle shelf of the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes. The cake is ready when it turns golden brown, shrinks from the sides of the pan, and springs back to touch.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon drizzle topping by mixing sugar and lemon juice in a bowl.
- When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and while still warm, spoon the lemon drizzle mixture over the cake.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the pan and slicing it into servings. Enjoy your delicious Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake!
Making the Lemon Drizzle
Creating the perfect lemon drizzle for Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake is essential to elevating its tangy sweetness. Follow these steps to prepare and apply the zesty drizzle topping with confidence.
Ingredients for the Drizzle
- 5.3 oz (150g) powdered sugar
- Juice of 1-2 lemons (approximately 4 tbsp)
Preparing the Drizzle
- Sift the powdered sugar into a bowl to ensure a smooth texture for the drizzle.
- Gradually add freshly squeezed lemon juice to the sugar, whisking continuously until you reach a thick but pourable consistency.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice as needed to achieve the desired thickness for the drizzle.
- Once the Lemon Drizzle Cake is baked and still warm, use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
- Carefully pour the prepared lemon drizzle over the warm cake, ensuring even distribution across the top.
- Allow the cake to cool completely, allowing the drizzle to set and create a sticky, irresistible topping that complements the moist cake texture.
Storing and Serving
How to Store the Cake
To maintain the delicious moisture of Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake, store it at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration as it could lead to hardening of the sponge. The cake can be stored for up to 4-5 days if kept correctly.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful presentation, slice the lemon drizzle cake into squares or rectangular slices. The tangy sweetness pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy this classic treat during afternoon tea or as a delightful dessert after dinner.
Conclusion
I’ve shared the secrets behind Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake, from its simplicity to the perfect balance of flavors. By using high-quality ingredients and following the easy steps outlined, you can create a delightful treat for any occasion. Remember to store the cake properly to preserve its moist texture and consider serving it with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy indulgence. Embrace the joy of baking and treat yourself to a slice of this classic dessert.