How to Make Hairy Bikers Lemon Drizzle Cake

Dive into the world of classic British baking with the Hairy Bikers' Lemon Drizzle Cake, a zesty and moist delight that's perfect for any occasion. This cake combines the tangy freshness of lemons with the sweetness of sugar to create a dessert that's beloved across the UK. Below, you'll find a guide to crafting this delicious cake, including its historical context, ingredients, preparation steps, and how to store it. Plus, we've answered some frequently asked questions to help you perfect your bake.

Brief Description of the Hairy Bikers' Lemon Drizzle Cake The Hairy Bikers' Lemon Drizzle Cake is a moist, lemon-flavored sponge cake, soaked with a lemon sugar mixture after baking to give it a deliciously crispy, sugary crust. It's simple yet irresistibly delightful, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Cultural or Historical Context Lemon drizzle cake has been a staple in British tea times for decades. The Hairy Bikers, Si King and Dave Myers, have contributed significantly to popularizing this classic cake, making it accessible to home bakers everywhere with their easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients List for the Hairy Bikers' Lemon Drizzle Cake

• Unsalted butter (175g), softened
• Caster sugar (275g in total, with portions used differently)
• Self-raising flour (200g)
• Baking powder (½ teaspoon)
• Large free-range eggs (3)
• Unwaxed lemons (2)
• For detailed proportions and additional ingredients for variations like the Lemon Poppy Seed Cake adaptation, ensure to refer to the original recipe sources​​​​​​.

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking tin with butter and parchment paper.
2. Cream together the butter and a portion of the sugar before incorporating the eggs, flour, and baking powder to create a smooth batter.
3. Bake until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean.
4. For the lemon drizzle, mix lemon juice with sugar and spoon over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in and crystallize.

Storage and Reheating

This cake keeps well in an airtight container for several days at room temperature. If you prefer to enjoy it warm, a brief stint in the microwave will revive that just-baked taste.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional values depend on the ingredients used, lemon drizzle cake is generally high in sugar and butter. For lighter options, consider adaptations with reduced sugar or alternative flours.

FAQ about the Hairy Bikers' Lemon Drizzle Cake

• Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, but butter offers a richer flavor.
• How long does the cake last? Properly stored, it can last for up to 5 days.
• Can I freeze this cake? Yes, without the drizzle, wrap it well and freeze for up to a month.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Hairy Bikers' Lemon Drizzle Cake, a recipe that's sure to bring a touch of British baking tradition to your kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the oven mitts, this cake promises to be a crowd-pleaser.