Picture this: a sunny afternoon, a warm cup of tea in hand, and a slice of Easy Lemon Madeira Cake on your plate. This delightful treat is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or simply craving a cozy dessert at home, this Easy Lemon Madeira Cake is sure to brighten your day.
Title: Easy Lemon Madeira Cake
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Zest of 2 lemons
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan, ensuring it is well coated to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender crumb in your cake.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them into the batter. The eggs should be at room temperature for the best results.
4. Sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the wet ingredients. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
5. Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The lemon zest adds a burst of citrus flavor, while the juice provides a refreshing tang to the cake. The vanilla extract enhances the overall aroma of the cake.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth out the surface to ensure an even rise during baking.
7. Bake the Easy Lemon Madeira Cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked for that homemade touch.
8. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Before serving, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a finishing touch. This simple step adds a decorative element and a hint of sweetness to each slice.
Indulge in a slice of this Easy Lemon Madeira Cake with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a delightful treat that will brighten your day. Whether enjoyed as a morning snack or a dessert after dinner, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. The light and zesty flavors are perfect for any season and are bound to impress family and friends alike. You’ll love the moist texture and citrus notes that make this cake a standout choice for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked lemon cake fill your home.
