The Delightful Elegance Of A Simple Lemon Cake
In baking, some recipes stand out because they are easy to make yet taste special. This simple lemon cake balances fresh lemon flavour with gentle sweetness, making it perfect for afternoon tea or a relaxed get-together.
Though the exact origins of lemon cake are hard to pinpoint, its popularity has grown because it delivers so much flavour with simple ingredients. The bright aroma of lemon zest and the gentle tang of lemon juice give the cake a fresh, sunlit character, especially enjoyable in warmer months.
What makes a lemon cake so satisfying is the balance. The tart notes from the lemon are softened by fine sugar, so the flavour stays lively without becoming sharp or overly sweet. When baked correctly, the crumb is tender and light, with a texture that feels smooth and comforting in every bite.
This base recipe is easy to adapt. Add poppy seeds, fold in berries, or keep it plain and elegant. After baking, brushing the top with a little melted butter gives a subtle gloss and a richer aroma. Serve it as is, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients
- 150 g All-Purpose Flour
- 120 g Fine Sugar
- Lemon zest from 1 lemon
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 50 g Oil
- 60 g Milk
- 10 g Lemon Juice
- 2 Eggs
Pan
- Mould size: 20 cm x 10 cm x 6.5 cm
Baking
- Oven temperature: 180°C (356°F)
- Baking time: 30 minutes
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, lemon zest, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
- Add the oil, milk, lemon juice, and eggs directly to the dry ingredients.
- Whisk until just combined. Do not over-mix.
- Use a hand mixer and beat on high speed for 1 minute to incorporate air and create a smooth batter.
- Grease a mould (20 cm x 10 cm x 6.5 cm) with butter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared mould and tap gently on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.
- Once baked, brush the top of the cake with a little melted butter for a glossy finish.
Tip
- Rub the lemon zest into the sugar for 10 seconds before mixing, it boosts the lemon aroma.
