Deliciously Moist Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe: A Citrus Delight

If you’re on the lookout for an irresistible dessert that captures the essence of sunny citrus flavors, look no further than this easy Lemon drizzle cake recipe. This classic treat boasts a moist, fluffy texture complemented by a vibrant lemon glaze that drips tantalizingly down the sides, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. The origins of Lemon drizzle cake can be traced back to traditional British baking, where it has been a cherished delight for generations. Perfect for celebrations, afternoon teas, or a simple indulgence, this homemade Lemon drizzle cake from scratch is not only simple to make but will surely impress your family and friends with its bright flavor and stunning presentation.

Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe breaks down every step, ensuring a delightful result. Ready to freshen up your dessert repertoire? Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into make this delightful treat that can even be adapted into a vegan Lemon drizzle cake!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serving Size: 8 servings

Ingredients

For this lemon drizzle cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
2 large eggs (or ½ cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option)
2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (120ml) milk (use almond milk for a dairy-free option)

For the Lemon Drizzle Glaze:

1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Equipment List

Before beginning, gather the following equipment:

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
9×5-inch loaf pan
Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your Lemon drizzle cake bakes evenly.
Prepare the Loaf Pan: Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or spray it with non-stick cooking spray. For extra ease, line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing some overhanging for easy removal.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure these elements are well combined for a fluffy cake structure.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This process should create a creamy consistency that looks pale in color.
Add the Eggs: Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If using applesauce for a vegan option, stir in until fully integrated. The mixture may look a bit curdled, but that’s normal.
Add Lemon Zest and Juice: Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The aroma of the citrus will make your kitchen smell divine!
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with the flour mixture and end with it, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine to keep the cake tender.
Transfer to the Loaf Pan: Scoop the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with your spatula. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter.
Bake to Perfection: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs clinging to it. You should also see a beautiful golden top that springs back lightly when touched.
Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. This step prevents sogginess.
Prepare the Lemon Drizzle Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and enough lemon juice to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Start with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and add more if necessary. The glaze should be thick yet drizzles off your whisk easily.
Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a picturesque finish.
Slice and Enjoy: Your luscious Lemon drizzle cake is now ready to slice, serve, and enjoy. Each bite should be moist, tangy, and sweet, making it perfect with a cup of tea!

Special Notes

For optimal freshness, store the Lemon drizzle cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to make it in advance, it freezes very well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

If at any point the glaze seems too thick for your preference, simply add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice or even a touch of milk until the desired consistency is achieved.

Variations and Customizations

This Lemon drizzle cake recipe is highly versatile. Here are some variations to consider:

Vegan Version: Swap the eggs for applesauce and use coconut oil in place of butter to make this cake vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free: Using almond or a gluten-free flour blend can help accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
Berry Addition: Toss in 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter for a fruity twist that complements the lemon beautifully.
Lemon Blueberry Drizzle Cake: Combine lemon zest with blueberries for a bright and delicious unite of flavors!

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 slice, approximately):

Calories: 240
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 1g

Engaging Visual Details

This Lemon drizzle cake should present a beautiful golden-brown top, slightly glossy from the glaze. When sliced, the inside should appear moist and airy with small bubbles evident from the cake’s rise. You’ll immediately be greeted by the refreshing scent of lemon with hints of sweetness that fills the air, inviting family and friends to indulge.

Consider incorporating a video or image series demonstrating each step—from the creaminess of the butter and sugar mix to the gorgeous glaze cascading down the sides—capturing the essence of this delightful dessert.

Conclusion

With its effortless charm and stunning flavor profile, this Lemon drizzle cake is destined to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a personal treat, this cake is a delightful way to savor the refreshing zest of lemons. We invite you to try this easy Lemon drizzle cake recipe today and share your thoughts! Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe or share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy baking!