Today, I’m making Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake, a classic treat that combines the bright taste of lemon with a moist sponge, all topped with a sweet, crunchy crust. This dessert is simple yet elegant, perfect for any occasion or just as a comforting treat.
I’ve put together easy-to-follow instructions to help you make this delightful cake. Whether you’re new to baking or have been doing it for years, you’ll find this recipe accessible and straightforward. Let’s get started on this delicious lemon cake together.
What is Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake?
The Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake is a quintessential British confectionery, celebrated for its moist, lemon-flavored sponge and its crisp, sugary topping. Infused with the zest and juice of fresh lemons, it strikes a perfect balance between tanginess and sweetness, making it an irresistible treat for lemon lovers.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: This recipe is straightforward, requiring basic ingredients and minimal baking skills.
- Flavor: The intense lemon flavor is refreshing and bold, perfect for those who appreciate a strong, citrusy punch.
- Texture: With a soft, moist crumb and a crunchy sugar crust, this cake offers a delightful sensory experience.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake
For the Cake:
- 225g (about 8oz or 0.5lbs) unsalted butter, softened
- 225g (about 8oz or 0.5lbs) caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 225g (about 8oz or 0.5lbs) self-raising flour
- Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
For the Lemon Drizzle Topping:
- Juice of 1.5 lemons
- 85g (about 3oz or 0.19lbs) granulated sugar
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake
To make this Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F or gas mark 4).
- Grease and line a loaf tin (8.5 x 4.5 x 2.5 inches) with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, adding a tablespoon of flour with each to prevent curdling.
- Fold in the remaining flour and the finely grated zest of 1 lemon, until the batter is smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cake:
- Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf tin and level 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.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Drizzle:
- While the cake is baking, mix together the lemon juice and granulated sugar to make the drizzle.
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and while still warm, prick the top all over with a skewer or fork.
- Spoon over the lemon drizzle, allowing it to soak into the cake and form a crisp topping as it cools.
Step 5: Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool in the tin for a short while, then lift it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve the cake once it’s completely cooled, enjoying the moist texture and zesty flavor.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake?
Pairing the perfect accompaniment with Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake can elevate this delightful dessert into a comprehensive and sophisticated treat.
Here are some suggestions:
- A Side of Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries offer a colorful and sweet contrast.
- Dollop of Whipped Cream: Adds a creamy texture that complements the cake’s zestiness.
- Spoonful of Lemon Curd: Amplifies the lemon flavor for those who love a citrus punch.
- A scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Provides a cool, creamy balance to the cake’s tangy profile.
- Cup of Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot in the tea pairs beautifully with the lemon flavor of the cake.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake
Achieving perfection in baking Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake is within reach with these expert tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and airy.
- Check for Doneness: Begin checking the cake 5 minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.
- Poke Deeply: When adding the drizzle, poke deep holes to ensure the lemon syrup penetrates through the cake.
- Let It Soak: Allow the drizzle to soak into the cake before removing it from the tin to enhance flavor absorption.
Variations of Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake
Experimenting with variations of the classic Lemon Drizzle Cake can lead to delightful discoveries:
- Orange Drizzle Cake: Substitute the lemon zest and juice with that of an orange for a sweeter, softer citrus note.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for a slight crunch and visual appeal.
- Lemon Blueberry Cake: Fold 150g (about 5oz) of fresh blueberries into the batter for bursts of juicy flavor.
- Lemon and Coconut Cake: Mix in 50g (about 1.75oz) of desiccated coconut into the batter and sprinkle some on top before drizzling for a tropical twist.
- Lemon and Ginger Cake: Add 2 teaspoons of ground ginger to the flour and fold in 50g (about 1.75oz) of finely chopped crystallized ginger for a warming kick.
How Do I Store Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake Leftovers?
Storing your Lemon Drizzle Cake properly will ensure that it stays as delicious as when it was first baked.
Here’s how to keep your cake tasting fresh:
- At Room Temperature: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for Longevity: Chill in the fridge, well-covered, to extend its life to a week.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap tightly and freeze for enjoying up to three months later.
How Do I Reheat Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake Leftovers?
Reheating Lemon Drizzle Cake correctly can bring back its warm, comforting texture and zesty flavor, making it feel freshly baked:
- Oven Method: Warm gently at 160°C (320°F) for a few minutes for an evenly heated slice.
- Quick Microwave Touch: Zap it on a low setting for just 10-20 seconds for a rapid warm-up.
Nutrition value (per slice)
- Calories: Approximately 330
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice Instead of Fresh for the Drizzle?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Keep in mind that bottled juice may lack the freshness and zestiness of fresh lemons, potentially affecting the final taste.
How Long Does Lemon Drizzle Cake Last?
Properly stored in an airtight container, Lemon Drizzle Cake can last up to 3 days at room temperature. If refrigerated, it can last for up to a week. For longer storage, freezing is an option, extending its life up to 3 months.
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can make Lemon Drizzle Cake gluten-free by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. Be sure to also check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What’s the Best Way to Zest a Lemon for This Cake?
The best way to zest a lemon is by using a fine grater or zester, grating only the colorful outer layer of the peel. Avoid the white pith underneath, as it’s bitter and can affect the cake’s flavor.
Where Did Lemon Drizzle Cake Originate?
Lemon Drizzle Cake has its roots in the United Kingdom, emerging as a beloved classic within British baking. Its popularity has grown due to its simple yet refreshing flavors, making it a staple in cafes and households across the country and beyond.
Why Is Lemon Drizzle Cake So Popular?
The popularity of Lemon Drizzle Cake lies in its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, coupled with its moist, tender crumb and crisp, sugary topping. This delightful contrast of textures and the bright zestiness of lemon make it a universally appealing dessert.
Final Words
The Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe offers the perfect blend of ease, flavor, and satisfaction. With the variations and tips provided, you can make this cake a signature treat for your family and friends, tailoring it to their tastes and your creative whims. So, preheat your oven and let the scent of lemony goodness fill your home, promising bites of bliss with every slice. Happy baking!