Lemon Drizzle Cake – Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate lemon drizzle cake, this recipe delivers everything you love about this British classic — a fluffy crumb, zesty flavor, and a luscious glaze. Infused with real lemon zest and soaked in tangy syrup, this cake is the perfect combination of fresh, citrusy brightness and rich, buttery texture. Whether you’re baking for teatime, dessert, or just a citrus craving, this moist lemon cake will never disappoint.

Why This Lemon Drizzle Cake is a Must-Try

This lemon drizzle cake stands out for its intense lemon flavor, simple steps, and crowd-pleasing texture. It’s not just easy to make — it’s also foolproof and perfect for beginners or seasoned bakers.

• Super Lemony: Zest and juice are layered into the batter, syrup, and glaze.
• Moist & Juicy Texture: The lemon syrup soaks through the sponge for ultimate tenderness.
• Quick to Prepare: Minimal prep and ingredients you likely have on hand.
• Perfect Anytime Treat: Ideal with tea, brunch, or as a light dessert.
• No Fancy Techniques: Straightforward instructions with home-kitchen tools.

Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen

Each ingredient in this lemon drizzle cake brings a purpose — from the richness of butter to the zing of fresh lemon zest.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and balances the tartness of lemon.
• Lemon Zest: Provides bold citrus aroma and depth.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and help the cake rise.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base structure for the cake.
• Baking Powder: Gives the cake its light, airy rise.
• Salt: Enhances the other flavors and balances sweetness.
• Whole Milk: Keeps the cake moist and soft.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Used in the syrup to saturate the cake with tangy flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Forms the base of the glaze, adding sweetness and shine.
• Schmand or Sour Cream: Creates a smooth, creamy glaze with a slight tang.
• Extra Lemon Zest (for topping): Adds color, flavor, and visual appeal.

Smart Swaps and Substitutions

Don’t have everything on hand? Here are a few helpful swaps that work well in this lemon drizzle cake recipe:

• Sour Cream Instead of Schmand: If you can’t find Schmand, sour cream or crème fraîche are excellent alternatives for the glaze.
• Self-Rising Flour: Replace all-purpose flour and baking powder with self-rising flour if needed.
• Non-Dairy Milk: Almond or oat milk works if you’re avoiding dairy — though whole milk provides the richest texture.
• Orange or Lime Zest: For a different citrus twist, try zesting oranges or limes instead of lemons.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Lemon Drizzle Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang for easy lifting later.
2. Cream the butter, sugar, and lemon zest for 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl halfway through.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Once all are added, beat on high for 1 more minute.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Add to the wet mix along with the milk. Mix on low until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Make the lemon syrup while the cake bakes: heat lemon juice and sugar over medium until slightly thickened (do not boil too long).
7. Once baked, poke holes all over the cake using a skewer. Brush the lemon syrup on while the cake is still warm, letting it soak in.
8. Cool completely in the pan, allowing the syrup to fully absorb.
9. Prepare the glaze by mixing sour cream and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over the cooled cake.
10. Finish with lemon zest sprinkled over the glaze. Let set before slicing.

Expert Tips for the Best Lemon Drizzle Cake

To master this lemon drizzle cake, a few expert tips can make a big difference in texture and flavor:

• Don’t overbake. Start checking around 45 minutes. A dry cake won’t absorb syrup well.
• Use fresh lemons. Bottled juice won’t deliver the same aromatic punch.
• Let the syrup soak in stages. Applying in layers helps distribute the moisture.
• Cool before glazing. A hot cake will melt the glaze instead of letting it sit beautifully.
• Use room-temperature ingredients. Butter, eggs, and milk at room temp mix more evenly.

Flavor Pairings and Delicious Variations

While this lemon drizzle cake shines on its own, it also pairs beautifully with other elements for a complete treat:

• With Whipped Cream or Clotted Cream: Adds richness and contrasts the tart lemon.
• Fresh Berries on the Side: Blueberries or raspberries offer a seasonal burst of color and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Add Poppy Seeds: For a lemon poppy seed twist, mix in 1–2 tablespoons to the batter.
• Zesty Glaze Variations: Add a drop of vanilla or a spoon of Greek yogurt to the glaze for deeper flavor.

A Year-Round Citrus Delight

Whether it’s spring brunches, summer picnics, or cozy indoor baking, lemon drizzle cake is always in season. Its bright citrus notes are refreshing in warm months, while its rich texture and comforting sweetness make it perfect for cooler days.

• Spring & Summer: Highlight the freshness of lemon with fruit or floral pairings.
• Fall & Winter: Serve with warm tea, honey drizzle, or infused glazes like ginger or cardamom.
• Cultural Staple: A classic British teatime treat that’s simple yet satisfying.

This lemon drizzle cake is the go-to recipe for anyone who loves citrus, baking, or simply enjoying something sweet and homemade. With its moist crumb, tangy layers, and gorgeous finish, it’s a dessert that’s sure to brighten your day.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Lemon Drizzle Cake

There’s something truly magical about this lemon drizzle cake — it’s bright, comforting, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at cakes for the first time, this recipe delivers reliable results with standout flavor. Its moist, citrus-infused sponge and silky glaze offer everything you want in a dessert: simplicity, beauty, and bold taste. Once you try it, it’s bound to become your go-to lemon cake recipe.

Serve it at tea time, wrap it for a picnic, or simply enjoy a slice with your morning coffee — no matter how or when, this lemon drizzle cake is always the right choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Apple Cider Layer Cake: This spiced apple cider cake offers a moist crumb and a sweet glaze that’s perfect for autumn, echoing the citrusy, syrup-soaked style of the lemon drizzle cake.
• Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze: Similar in texture and method, this warmly spiced loaf is topped with a rich maple glaze, making it a cozy counterpart to a lemon drizzle cake.
• Super Moist Banana Bread Loaf: This ultra-soft banana bread shares the same moist texture and loaf-style baking method as lemon drizzle cake, with a comforting flavor twist.

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