Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe

Lemon Drizzle Cake is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. With its light, fluffy texture and an incredibly refreshing citrus kick, this cake is the ultimate choice for anyone craving a simple yet delicious dessert. The zesty lemon syrup seeps into the sponge, and a tangy glaze on top brings this cake to a whole new level of flavor. Whether it’s for a tea party, special celebration, or a casual snack, this Lemon Drizzle Cake never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Drizzle Cake

This Lemon Drizzle Cake is everything you could want in a dessert: simple, quick, and bursting with flavor. The cake is light and airy with just the right amount of moisture, thanks to the lemon syrup that soaks into the sponge. The glaze adds the finishing touch, making every bite a burst of citrusy goodness. The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility; it can be made for any occasion, and its bright lemony flavor makes it a standout on any dessert table.

Ingredients for Lemon Drizzle Cake

Here’s what you need to make this delightful Lemon Drizzle Cake:

• Butter: Creates a rich, tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the lemon flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a fresh citrus aroma and enhances the lemon flavor.
• Eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the cake.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cake, giving it a light texture.
• Baking Powder: Ensures the cake rises and stays fluffy.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Whole Milk: Contributes to the cake’s moist texture.

For the Lemon Syrup:

• Fresh Lemon Juice: A vital component for that zingy lemon flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the syrup just enough to balance the tartness.

For the Glaze:

• Schmand (Sour Cream): Adds a creamy texture and slight tang to the glaze.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a smooth finish.
• Lemon Zest: For garnish and extra lemony punch.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to tweak the recipe based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are a few swaps:

• Butter: Use plant-based butter or vegetable oil if you prefer a dairy-free option.
• Schmand: You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a lighter glaze.
• Whole Milk: Swap with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Eggs: For a vegan version, consider using a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) as a substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Drizzle Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F) and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, combine the butter, sugar, and lemon zest. Beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating on medium speed for 1 minute after each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl and beat on high speed for an additional minute until smooth.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the batter, alternating with milk, on low speed until just combined.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake after 45 minutes to prevent overbaking.
6. Prepare the Lemon Syrup: While the cake bakes, make the lemon syrup by bringing the lemon juice and sugar to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer until slightly thickened.
7. Soak the Cake: Once the cake is out of the oven, use a skewer to poke several holes into the top. Brush the lemon syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Pour the remaining syrup on top and let the cake cool completely in the pan.
8. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and Schmand (or sour cream) until smooth.
9. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, lift it out of the pan and place it on a wire rack. Spread the glaze over the top and sprinkle with fresh lemon zest for an added burst of flavor.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Lemon Drizzle Cake

• Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cake after 45 minutes. Overbaking will result in a dry cake.
• Lemon Syrup: For a juicier cake, don’t let the syrup thicken too much. A runnier syrup soaks in better for that extra moist texture.
• Adjust the Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar. For a thinner glaze, reduce the sugar slightly.
• Storage: Keep your Lemon Drizzle Cake in the fridge, as the glaze requires refrigeration. It stays fresh for up to 4 days if stored properly.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Lemon Drizzle Cake is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it with a few pairings or variations:

• Pairings: Serve with a cup of tea for a traditional afternoon treat. It also goes wonderfully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spiced variation.
• Lemon Lovers: If you’re a true lemon enthusiast, try adding a little extra lemon zest into the batter or increase the amount of lemon syrup for an even bolder citrus flavor.

Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal

Lemon Drizzle Cake isn’t just a treat for the taste buds—it also offers a few health benefits. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is known for boosting the immune system and improving skin health. While this cake isn’t exactly a health food, the natural citrus flavor and zest make it a lighter dessert choice compared to heavier, chocolate-based options. This cake is perfect for spring or summer when lemons are in season, giving it a bright, fresh appeal.

With its combination of tangy lemon syrup, sweet glaze, and fluffy texture, this Lemon Drizzle Cake is a dessert that will never go out of style. It’s easy to make, delicious, and sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Conclusion

Lemon Drizzle Cake is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. Its light, airy texture combined with the bold tang of lemon syrup and glaze makes it a must-try dessert. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, an afternoon tea, or just enjoying it with a cup of coffee, this cake will undoubtedly become a favorite. The balance of sweetness and citrus zing ensures that each bite is as satisfying as the last. So, gather your ingredients and whip up this easy yet delightful treat—your taste buds will thank you!

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