For the Cake:
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200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
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200g (1 cup) caster sugar
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3 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Zest of 2 lemons
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200g (1⅔ cups) self-raising flour
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120ml (½ cup) sweetened condensed milk
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2 tbsp lemon juice
For the Lemon Drizzle:
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60ml (¼ cup) lemon juice
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100g (½ cup) icing sugar
Optional Glaze (for extra sweetness):
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2 tbsp condensed milk
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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½ cup icing sugar
Preparation:
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F. Grease and line a loaf tin or round cake pan.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy.
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Add Eggs and Flavors: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla and lemon zest.
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Fold in Flour: Gently fold in the self-raising flour, alternating with the condensed milk and lemon juice, until just combined.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Bake for 40–50 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Drizzle Time: While the cake is still warm, poke holes in the top and pour over the lemon drizzle mixture (juice and icing sugar combined). Let it soak in.
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Cool and (Optional) Glaze: Once fully cooled, drizzle with the optional glaze for a glossy, tangy finish.
Serving and Storage Tips:
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Serving: Serve in thick slices with a cup of tea or top with whipped cream or fresh berries for a dessert twist.
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Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variants:
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Lemon Coconut Cake: Add 50g desiccated coconut to the batter and top with toasted coconut flakes.
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Lemon-Blueberry Swirl: Fold in a handful of fresh blueberries before baking.
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Orange Twist: Replace lemon with orange zest and juice for a sweeter citrus flavor.
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Mini Loaves: Use the batter to make individual mini cakes—perfect for gifts or portion control.
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Vegan Version: Use plant-based condensed milk and substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
FAQ:
Q: Can I use evaporated milk instead of condensed milk?
A: No, condensed milk is sweet and thick—evaporated milk won’t give the same sweetness or texture.
Q: Why poke holes in the cake before adding the drizzle?
A: It allows the lemon syrup to soak deep into the sponge, making every bite moist and flavorful.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with added baking powder if needed.
Q: What type of lemon is best?
A: Fresh, unwaxed lemons are ideal for both zest and juice. Meyer lemons give a slightly sweeter twist.
Q: How do I avoid a dry cake?
A: Don’t overbake—check your cake around 40 minutes. The condensed milk also helps lock in moisture.