Zesty Lemon Drizzle Cake with a Tangy Lemon Glaze

This Lemon Drizzle Cake is a citrus lover’s dream, bursting with fresh lemon flavor and topped with a tangy lemon glaze. The cake is moist and tender, with the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness from the lemon. After baking, the cake is soaked in a lemon syrup, ensuring every bite is infused with bright, zesty flavor. A final layer of lemon glaze adds a beautiful finish, making this cake both delicious and visually appealing. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, bringing a refreshing burst of citrus to your table.

Why You’ll Love This:

You’ll love this Lemon Drizzle Cake for its moist texture and vibrant lemon flavor. The combination of lemon zest, lemon juice, and a sweet lemon syrup ensures that the cake is packed with citrusy goodness in every bite. The lemon glaze adds a tangy sweetness that complements the soft crumb of the cake, making it an irresistible treat for lemon lovers. This cake is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying it with afternoon tea or serving it as a light dessert after dinner.

Perfect Occasion:

This Lemon Drizzle Cake is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, where its fresh and zesty flavor will be a hit. It’s perfect for tea parties, brunches, or as a dessert for a family dinner. The cake’s bright flavor and beautiful presentation make it a great choice for entertaining guests, and its simplicity ensures that it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. Serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.

Decoration Tips:

For an elegant finish, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. You can also garnish the cake with thin slices of lemon or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the cake on a decorative platter to showcase its golden hue and beautiful glaze. If you’re feeling creative, you can even add a dusting of powdered sugar or edible flowers for a festive touch.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• Zest of 1.5 lemons
• 1 packet of lemon flavoring (or additional lemon zest)
• 100 ml heavy cream
• 60 ml vegetable oil
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the Lemon Syrup:

• 50 ml lemon juice
• 50 ml water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• Enough lemon juice to achieve a glaze consistency

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 175°C (347°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers to release the oils and enhance the lemon flavor.
   • Add the eggs to the sugar mixture and beat until the mixture becomes light and creamy.
   • Pour in the vegetable oil and heavy cream, continuing to mix until fully incorporated.
   • Sift the flour and baking powder into the wet ingredients and mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
2. Bake the Cake:
   • Grease a cake pan generously with butter, ensuring that all sides are well coated.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Lemon Syrup:
   • While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, water, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
   • Once the cake is out of the oven and still warm, drizzle the hot lemon syrup over the top, allowing it to soak into the cake. Wrap the cake in foil and let it sit at room temperature for several hours or overnight to absorb the flavors.
4. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar with enough lemon juice to create a thick, pourable glaze. Stir until smooth and well combined.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Unwrap the cake and place it on a serving platter. Pour the lemon glaze over the top, spreading it evenly and allowing it to drip down the sides.
   • Slice and serve the cake, garnishing with additional lemon zest or slices if desired.

Enjoy!