Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe – A step-by-step guide to baking this classic treat.
Table of Contents
Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe – A step-by-step guide to baking this classic treat.
Are you looking for a simple yet impressive dessert to brighten up your day? The Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake is a classic treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This moist and flavorful lemon drizzle tray bake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a delicious snack.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to bake this delightful cake. You’ll learn about the ingredients, preparation, and baking process to achieve the perfect lemon drizzle cake.
Key Takeaways
- Easy-to-follow recipe for a classic dessert
- Moist and flavorful lemon drizzle tray bake
- Perfect for any occasion or gathering
- Step-by-step guide for baking success
- Delicious snack or dessert option
The Story Behind Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake
The story of Mary Berry’s lemon drizzle cake is deeply intertwined with her own culinary journey. As a celebrated baker and television presenter, Mary Berry has inspired countless home bakers with her recipes and techniques.
Who is Mary Berry?
Mary Berry is a renowned British baker and cookbook author who has been a household name for decades. With a career spanning over 40 years, she has become synonymous with baking excellence. You might know her from popular baking shows where she has shared her expertise and passion for baking.
Why This Recipe Became a Classic
The lemon drizzle cake recipe, as shared by Mary Berry, has become a classic due to its ideal blend of sweetness and citrusy tang.The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the delightful texture and flavor, has made it a favorite among bakers. Here’s a brief overview of its key characteristics:
| Characteristics | Description |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet and tangy |
| Texture | Moist with a crunchy topping |
| Complexity | Simple to make |
What Makes Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake Special
Mary Berry’s lemon drizzle cake is a beloved treat that has captured the hearts of many with its unique flavor profile. This classic dessert stands out due to its perfect balance of flavors and signature crunchy topping. When you bake this cake, you’re not just following a recipe; you’re creating a culinary experience.
The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tangy
The Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake recipe achieves a delightful harmony between sweet and tangy flavors. The lemon zest and juice provide a nice brightness, while the sugar adds a comforting sweetness. This balance is crucial for the cake’s overall flavor profile. You can adjust the amount of lemon to your taste, but the classic recipe provides a good starting point.
The Signature Crunchy Topping
The crunchy lemon drizzle topping is a hallmark of the Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake. Made with lemon juice and sugar, this topping adds a nice textural contrast to the moist cake. To achieve the perfect crunch, it’s essential to apply the drizzle while the cake is still warm. This allows the topping to set properly and gives the cake its signature look.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake
The key to a delicious Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake lies in the quality of its ingredients. To achieve the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, you’ll need to gather a specific set of ingredients.
Dry Ingredients
The dry ingredients provide structure and texture to the cake. You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients work together to create a tender crumb and help the cake rise.
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients add moisture and flavor to the cake. You’ll require unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The quality of these ingredients will significantly impact the overall taste of your Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake.
For the Drizzle
The drizzle is a signature element of the Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake. To make it, you’ll need granulated sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The drizzle adds a sweet and tangy flavor, balancing out the richness of the cake.
While the coffee walnut traybake is a different recipe, the attention to ingredient quality is just as crucial. For now, let’s focus on getting the ingredients right for our Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Before you start baking Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake, it’s essential to have the right kitchen equipment. This will ensure that your cake turns out perfectly and that the baking process is as smooth as possible.
Baking Tools
To begin, you’ll need some basic baking tools. These include a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a rubber spatula. A digital scale is also crucial for accurately measuring your ingredients. Additionally, you’ll need a loaf tin or a cake pan, depending on your preference for the cake’s shape.
Optional Equipment
Some equipment is not essential but can make the process easier. For example, an electric mixer can be helpful for creaming the butter and sugar together. You might also consider using a zester for finely grating the lemon zest. While these tools are not necessary, they can enhance your baking experience.
Preparation Before Baking
To ensure your Lemon Drizzle Cake turns out perfectly, preparation is key. Proper preparation helps in achieving a smooth baking process and ensures that your cake has the best possible texture and flavor.
Measuring and Organizing Ingredients
Start by measuring out all the ingredients accurately. Use a digital scale for exact measurements. Prep your ingredients ahead of time, placing them in the order you’ll add them. This step is crucial for a seamless mixing process and helps prevent mistakes.
- Measure dry ingredients like flour and sugar.
- Crack eggs into a separate bowl to avoid any shell fragments.
- Grate the lemon zest and juice the lemons.
Preparing Your Baking Tin
Preparing your baking tin properly is vital to prevent the cake from sticking. Grease the tin thoroughly with butter and then line it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake will come out easily once baked.
Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
The key to a moist and flavorful Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake lies in the mixing process. To ensure you achieve the right consistency and flavor, follow these detailed steps.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Begin by creaming the butter and sugar together until they form a light and fluffy mixture. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cake to rise. Use an electric mixer on a medium speed to cream the butter and sugar for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is pale and has doubled in volume.
Adding Eggs and Flour
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This allows the eggs to fully mix with the other ingredients, making the batter smooth and consistent. After adding the eggs, gently fold in the flour using a spatula or a large metal spoon. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cake heavy and dense.
Use a fine grater to zest the lemon, being careful not to include any of the white pith.
Incorporating Lemon Zest
Finally,Incorporate the zest gently, ensuring it’s evenly scattered throughout the batter.Let’s quickly review the mixing process with this handy table:
| Step | Action | Notes |
| 1 | Cream butter and sugar | Until light and fluffy |
| 2 | Add eggs | One at a time, beating well |
| 3 | Fold in flour | Gently, to avoid overmixing |
| 4 | Add lemon zest | Gently fold in |
By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a well-mixed batter that’s ready for baking into a delicious Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake.
Baking Your Lemon Drizzle Cake
Baking Your Lemon Drizzle Cake
To ensure your lemon drizzle cake turns out right, follow these baking guidelines carefully. This step is essential and demands precision to create the perfect cake. treat.
Oven Temperature and Positioning
Preheat your oven to the correct temperature, which is crucial for even baking. For a Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake, the oven should be set to 180°C (350°F). Preheat your oven thoroughly, and consider using an oven thermometer to confirm the temperature. the temperature. Position your cake tin in the middle of the oven to allow for even heat distribution.
Baking Time and Testing for Doneness
Bake your cake for 25-30 minutes, but keep an eye on it as oven times can vary. To check if your cake is done, insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.Another way to check is by gently pressing the surface; if it springs back, it’s fully baked. This step is crucial to avoid overcooking your lemon drizzle cake.
Common Baking Issues and Solutions
If your cake is not rising properly, check your oven temperature and ensure your baking powder is fresh. If the cake is browning too quickly, cover the top with foil to prevent over-browning. To prevent a soggy base, be sure to grease the tin thoroughly and think about using a… baking sheet to distribute heat evenly. By troubleshooting these common issues, you’ll be able to achieve a perfectly baked lemon drizzle cake.
Creating the Perfect Lemon Drizzle Topping
The crowning glory of Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake is undoubtedly its tangy and sweet lemon drizzle topping. What makes the cake special is the topping, which adds a signature crisp texture and… tangy effect that complements the moist lemon cake perfectly.
Mixing the Drizzle
To mix the drizzle, you will need to combine granulated sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice in the right proportions. The traditional ratio is quite flexible, but a good starting point is 1 part lemon juice to 2 parts sugar. Adjust the ratio to taste, ensuring it’s not too runny or too thick.
Applying the Drizzle Correctly
Once your cake is baked and still warm, it’s time to apply the drizzle. Prick the top of the cake with a skewer to allow the drizzle to seep into the cake. Then, pour the lemon drizzle mixture evenly over the top. The warmth of the cake will help the drizzle soak in, creating that signature crunchy topping as it cools.
To further enhance the lemon drizzle topping, consider the following guidelines for the basic ratio and some tips for adjustment.
| Lemon Juice (parts) | Sugar (parts) | Consistency |
| 1 | 2 | Standard |
| 1.5 | 2 | More tangy |
| 1 | 3 | Sweeter |
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a lemon drizzle topping that elevates your Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Cake to the next level. Remember, the key is in the balance between the tanginess of the lemon and the sweetness of the sugar.
Lemon Drizzle Tray Bake Variation
If you’re looking to make a larger batch of Mary Berry’s famous lemon drizzle cake, converting the recipe to a tray bake is a great option. This adaptation is perfect for events, gatherings, or simply for having a delicious treat on hand for a longer period.
Adjusting Ingredients for a Tray Bake
To make a tray bake version, you’ll need to adjust the ingredient quantities. A standard tray bake tin is larger than a traditional round cake tin, so Make sure to scale up the ingredients proportionally. For a typical tray bake, you can roughly double or triple the ingredients, depending on the size of your tin.
- Double the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, etc.)
- Triple the wet ingredients (eggs, butter, lemon juice, etc.) for a larger tray
- Adjust the lemon zest and drizzle ingredients accordingly
Baking Time Differences
Baking a tray bake will require a different baking time compared to the original cake recipe. The cake will be larger and thicker, so it will need more time in the oven. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
Baking time can vary, but as a general rule, add 10-15 minutes to the original baking time and check periodically.
Serving and Cutting Tips
Once baked and cooled, a tray bake is easy to serve. Simply cut it into squares or bars, depending on your preference. For a more polished look, you can drizzle the topping in a decorative pattern over the top.
To ensure clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
Mary Berry’s Other Popular Cake Recipes
Exploring Mary Berry’s repertoire of cake recipes reveals a treasure trove of flavors and textures to inspire any baker. While the lemon drizzle cake is a classic, Mary Berry has shared many other delightful recipes that are worth trying.
One of her notable recipes is the Mary Berry Coffee Cake, which offers a delicious alternative for those who enjoy coffee-infused baked goods. This recipe is particularly appealing because it combines the richness of coffee with the sweetness of cake, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Mary Berry Coffee Cake Recipe Comparison
When comparing the Mary Berry Coffee Cake recipe to the lemon drizzle cake, several differences stand out. The coffee cake is moist and dense, with a strong coffee flavor, whereas the lemon drizzle cake is light and citrusy. The coffee cake is ideal for those who prefer a less sweet dessert or a snack to accompany their coffee.
| Feature | Lemon Drizzle Cake | Coffee Cake |
| Flavor Profile | Citrusy and sweet | Rich coffee flavor |
| Texture | Light and fluffy | Moist and dense |
| Occasion | Perfect for spring or summer | Ideal for coffee breaks or as a snack |
Coffee Walnut Traybake Highlights
Another popular recipe by Mary Berry is the Coffee Walnut Traybake. This recipe is a variation of the coffee cake but includes walnuts for added texture and flavor. The traybake format makes it easy to serve and is perfect for gatherings or events.
The addition of walnuts not only enhances the flavor but also provides a satisfying crunch. This recipe is a great example of how Mary Berry’s creations can be adapted for different occasions and preferences.
By exploring these different recipes, bakers can expand their repertoire and find new favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something citrusy and light or rich and coffee-flavored, Mary Berry’s recipes have something to offer.
Troubleshooting and Expert Tips
The key to a successful Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake lies in understanding the common pitfalls and how to avoid them. Even with a tried-and-tested recipe, issues can arise that affect the final result.
Preventing a Soggy Middle
A soggy middle is a common issue with lemon drizzle cakes. To prevent this, ensure that your cake is fully baked before removing it from the oven. Insert a skewer into the middle to check if it comes out clean, indicating the cake is done. clean, the cake is ready. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can cause the cake to sink in the middle and become soggy.
Achieving the Perfect Rise
To achieve a perfectly risen Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake, it’s crucial to use room temperature ingredients. This ensures that the butter and sugar cream properly, incorporating air and helping the cake to rise evenly. Also, be gentle when folding in the flour to avoid deflating the mixture.
Mary Berry’s Secret Tips
Mary Berry recommends using high-quality ingredients, such as real butter and fresh lemons, to give your cake the best flavor. She also suggests not opening the oven door during the initial baking time, as this can cause the cake to sink. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking a Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake that’s sure to impress.
Conclusion
You now have all the tools and knowledge needed to bake a delicious Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create a moist and flavorful cake with a signature crunchy topping.
The Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake recipe is a classic for a reason – it combines the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a treat for anyone who tries it. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
So, get baking and enjoy the delightful experience of creating and sharing this wonderful cake with your loved ones. With Mary Berry’s guidance, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled baker, and your Mary Berry lemon drizzle cake is sure to impress.
FAQ
What is the difference between a lemon drizzle cake and a lemon drizzle tray bake?
A lemon drizzle cake is typically baked in a round cake tin, while a lemon drizzle tray bake is baked in a rectangular tray. The tray bake version is often easier to make and serves more people.
Can I use a different type of citrus fruit instead of lemons in Mary Berry’s lemon drizzle cake recipe?
While you can experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges or limes, lemons are a crucial component of the traditional lemon drizzle flavor profile. Substituting may alter the character of the cake.
How do I store Mary Berry’s lemon drizzle cake to keep it fresh?
To keep your lemon drizzle cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I make Mary Berry’s coffee cake recipe using the same ingredients as the lemon drizzle cake?
No, Mary Berry’s coffee cake recipe requires different ingredients, such as coffee and sometimes nuts or chocolate. You’ll need to follow a separate recipe for a coffee cake.
Is Mary Berry’s coffee walnut traybake recipe similar to her lemon drizzle tray bake recipe?
While both are traybake recipes, they have distinct ingredients and flavor profiles. The coffee walnut traybake includes coffee and walnuts, making it a different dessert from the lemon drizzle tray bake.
How do I prevent my lemon drizzle cake from becoming soggy?
To prevent sogginess, ensure your cake is completely cool before applying the lemon drizzle topping, and avoid over-soaking the cake with the drizzle.
