Nigella Orange Drizzle Cake

Discover the vibrant and moist Nigella Lawson Orange Drizzle Cake, a delightful treat that embodies the essence of citrus. This cake, shared by the community and not directly by Nigella Lawson, is a perfect blend of sweetness and tang, making it a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

Brief Description of the Recipe The Orange Drizzle Cake is a community-shared recipe inspired by Nigella Lawson's approach to baking. It features a soft, moist texture infused with the zest of oranges and topped with a zesty orange drizzle. This cake is not only a pleasure to eat but also a joy to bake, with its simple method and the delightful aroma it spreads in your kitchen.

Cultural or Historical Context Originating from the warm, citrus groves, the concept of drizzle cakes has been a staple in British baking for generations. The addition of citrus, like orange, elevates a simple loaf to a refreshing and invigorating dessert or teatime snack, embodying the essence of home baking and family gatherings.

Ingredients for the Nigella Lawson Orange Drizzle Cake

• For the cake:
  • 175g self-raising flour
  • 175g caster sugar
  • 175g butter, softened
  • 5 tablespoons milk
  • 2 medium eggs
  • Grated rind of 1 large orange
• For the topping:
  • 75g caster sugar
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by greasing a loaf tin and preheating your oven.
2. Combine the flour, sugar, butter, milk, eggs, and orange rind in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth.
3. Bake until golden and risen. Near the end of baking, prepare the orange juice and sugar topping by heating until the sugar dissolves.
4. Pour the topping over the warm cake and allow to cool before serving.

Storage and Reheating This cake's moist nature means it keeps well for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, it can be frozen and enjoyed at a later date.

Nutritional Information A slice of this cake offers a balance of sweetness and zest, with calories mainly coming from sugar, butter, and flour. The exact nutritional values can vary, but it's a treat best enjoyed in moderation within a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use other citrus fruits? Yes, lemon or lime zest can be used as an alternative to orange for a different but equally delightful flavor.
• Can the cake be frozen? Absolutely, the cake freezes well. Just ensure it's properly wrapped to maintain its moisture and flavor.
• Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free? Yes, by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free alternative and adding a gluten-free baking powder, you can enjoy a gluten-free version of this cake.

Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet and tangy with the Nigella Lawson Orange Drizzle Cake, a perfect treat for any occasion​​​​.