There’s something irresistibly charming about a perfectly baked lemon drizzle cake. Mary Berry’s version of this beloved British classic has captured hearts worldwide with its delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. A single slice of this moist, zesty treat can transport you to sun-drenched afternoons in an English garden, even on the gloomiest of days. This timeless recipe combines the vibrant zing of fresh lemons with a light, tender sponge and a gloriously sticky, crunchy topping that makes it utterly impossible to stop at just one slice.

What Makes Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake Special?

Mary Berry, the queen of British baking, has perfected this recipe over decades of experience. What sets her version apart is the carefully balanced proportions and simple techniques that ensure consistent results. The secret lies in the generous amount of fresh lemon zest in the batter, providing intense citrus flavor throughout the cake, while the drizzle creates a crystallized, tangy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.

Unlike many modern adaptations, Mary’s traditional recipe doesn’t overcomplicate matters with glazes, frostings, or additional flavorings. It’s a masterclass in how perfect simplicity can create something truly extraordinary, showcasing the bright, clean taste of lemons in their purest form.

Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake

Jowel

A classic British lemon drizzle cake with a light, tender sponge and tangy, crunchy lemon sugar topping. This recipe by Mary Berry is perfect for afternoon tea or any occasion

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 50

Total Time 1 20

Course Dessert

Cuisine British

Servings 12 slices

Calories 295 kcal

Ingredients

225 g 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
225 g 1 cup caster sugar
275 g 2¼ cups self-raising flour, sifted
2 teaspoons baking powder
4 large eggs at room temperature
4 tablespoons 60ml whole milk
Finely grated zest from 2 unwaxed lemons
175 g ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Freshly squeezed juice from 2 lemons approximately 6 tablespoons

Keyword afternoon tea, British baking, easy cake recipe, lemon cake, lemon drizzle cake, Mary Berry inspired

A Brief History of Lemon Drizzle Cake

The lemon drizzle cake has been a favorite in British homes for generations, with its origins traceable to the early 20th century when fresh citrus became more readily available. It gained tremendous popularity during the post-war period when home baking saw a resurgence.

Mary Berry’s version became particularly famous following her appearances on the Great British Bake Off, introducing this humble cake to international audiences. Today, it consistently ranks among the UK’s most beloved baked goods, a testament to its timeless appeal and perfect balance of flavors.

Equipment You’ll Need

Before diving into the baking process, gather these essential tools:

2lb loaf tin (approximately 23cm x 13cm x 6cm)
Parchment paper
Electric mixer (hand or stand)
Mixing bowls
Zester or fine grater
Citrus juicer
Wire cooling rack
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients for the Perfect Lemon Drizzle Cake

For the Cake Batter:

225g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
225g (1 cup) caster sugar
275g (2¼ cups) self-raising flour, sifted
2 teaspoons baking powder
4 large eggs, at room temperature
4 tablespoons (60ml) whole milk
Finely grated zest from 2 unwaxed lemons

For the Signature Drizzle Topping:

175g (¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons) granulated sugar
Freshly squeezed juice from 2 lemons (approximately 6 tablespoons)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing Your Baking Setup

Preheat your oven to 160°C (150°C fan) or 320°F.
Thoroughly grease your loaf tin with butter or cooking spray.
Line the tin with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift the cake out later.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing and rising.

Creating the Perfect Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until pale, fluffy, and almost doubled in volume (approximately 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer).
Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding a tablespoon of flour with each egg to prevent curdling.
Gently fold in the remaining flour and baking powder using a large metal spoon or spatula, maintaining as much air in the mixture as possible.
Add the milk gradually while continuing to fold, creating a smooth, dropping consistency.
Fold in the lemon zest, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf tin, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

Baking to Perfection

Place the tin in the center of your preheated oven.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown on top and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
The cake should spring back when lightly pressed with a fingertip and may have a slight crack along the top (a characteristic of good loaf cakes).

Creating the Signature Drizzle

While the cake is baking, prepare the drizzle by combining the granulated sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a small bowl.
Stir until the sugar is partially dissolved, maintaining some graininess for that characteristic crunch.
When the cake comes out of the oven, leave it in the tin and immediately poke the surface all over with a skewer or fork, creating channels for the drizzle.
Slowly pour the lemon drizzle mixture evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
Let the cake cool completely in the tin, giving the drizzle time to crystallize and form that distinctive crunchy topping.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Lemon Drizzle Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best volume and texture, ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
Creaming Method: Don’t rush the creaming of butter and sugar—it’s crucial for incorporating air and achieving a light texture.
Zesting Technique: When zesting lemons, take only the yellow outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath.
Drizzle Timing: Apply the drizzle while the cake is still warm for maximum absorption and flavor integration.
Cooling Process: Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin before removing to ensure the structure sets properly.

Variations to Try

While Mary’s classic recipe is perfect as is, here are some delightful variations to explore:

Lemon and Poppy Seed

Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Lemon and Blueberry

Gently fold 150g of fresh blueberries (lightly dusted with flour) into the batter before baking.

Earl Grey Infusion

Add the contents of 2 Earl Grey tea bags to the sugar before creaming with butter for a sophisticated flavor profile.

Glazed Version

For an extra touch of decadence, add a simple icing made from 100g powdered sugar mixed with 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice, drizzled over the completely cooled cake.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This cake keeps beautifully for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For the ultimate taste experience, enjoy it:

With afternoon tea or coffee
Alongside fresh berries and a dollop of clotted cream
As a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
For breakfast with a spoonful of Greek yogurt

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Slices)

Calories: 295
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sodium: 110mg

Why This Recipe Works Every Time

Mary Berry’s lemon drizzle cake has stood the test of time because it perfectly balances several key elements:

The Fat-to-Flour Ratio: The proportions create a cake that’s moist without being heavy.
Leavening Balance: The combination of self-raising flour and additional baking powder provides the perfect rise.
Two-Stage Flavor Delivery: Lemon zest in the batter provides a gentle background flavor, while the drizzle delivers an intense, tangy punch.
Textural Contrast: The soft, tender crumb contrasts beautifully with the crystallized sugar crust.

For more amazing recipes, be sure to check out our other sections to explore a variety of ideas that will enrich your cooking experience. Each section offers its own unique flavors to ensure a delightful culinary journey:

Easy and Quick Recipes: A collection of dishes that guarantee delicious meals with minimal effort and time.
Healthy Recipes: Discover healthy and delicious options that fit your lifestyle.
Desserts: A diverse selection of sweets that will add a special touch of sweetness to your table.
Lunch Recipes: Tasty lunch ideas that you can easily prepare to delight your family.
Dinner Recipes: Delicious and easy-to-make recipes that will make your dinner a memorable occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

For the best flavor, fresh lemon juice is strongly recommended. Bottled versions often lack the bright, vibrant quality that makes this cake special.

My cake sank in the middle. What went wrong?

This typically happens when the oven door is opened during baking or when the cake is underbaked. Ensure your oven is properly preheated and avoid opening the door during the first 30 minutes of baking.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! This cake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely. Replace the self-raising flour with a good quality gluten-free self-raising flour blend, and add ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum for best results.

Why is my drizzle topping not crunchy?

If your drizzle topping lacks crunch, you may have dissolved the sugar too much before applying. For that signature texture, the sugar should be only partially dissolved.

A Perfect Cake for Every Occasion

Mary Berry’s lemon drizzle cake is wonderfully versatile, suitable for everything from casual family tea times to elegant entertaining. Its bright flavor profile works year-round, though it’s particularly welcomed in spring and summer when its sunny character feels most appropriate.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at cake-making for the first time, this recipe delivers reliable, delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds. The beauty of this classic lies in its straightforward preparation and extraordinary flavor—proof that sometimes the simplest recipes create the most memorable experiences.

So the next time you’re craving something that perfectly balances sweet and tangy notes, look no further than this beloved British classic. One slice of Mary Berry’s lemon drizzle cake, and you’ll understand why it has earned its place in the pantheon of truly perfect bakes.

Close-up of the cake's crumb showing the moist texture and lemon zest

Overhead view of the full cake with its crystallized lemon drizzle topping

Conclusion: A Taste of British Baking Excellence

Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake stands as a testament to the beauty of traditional British baking. Its enduring popularity comes not from complexity or trendy ingredients, but from the perfect execution of a simple concept: the marriage of tender sponge with bright, zesty lemon. This recipe exemplifies why Mary Berry has become such a beloved figure in the culinary world—her ability to create accessible recipes that deliver exceptional results.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a weekend treat, or simply to brighten a mundane weekday, this lemon drizzle cake never disappoints. The contrast between the soft, moist interior and the crystallized, crunchy topping creates a sensory experience that continues to delight generation after generation of bakers and dessert lovers alike.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and reliability. Even novice bakers can achieve impressive results, while experienced pastry chefs appreciate its perfect proportions and balanced flavors. The bright, sunny character of the lemons shines through in every bite, making this cake a ray of sunshine on your plate regardless of the weather outside.

As you master this classic recipe, you’ll likely find it becoming a regular feature in your baking repertoire—the cake you reach for when you want to impress without stress, comfort with familiarity, or simply indulge in one of life’s simple pleasures. Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a slice of British culinary heritage that continues to bring joy to tables around the world.

So preheat your oven, zest those lemons, and prepare to create a little magic in your kitchen. This timeless classic awaits, promising the perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every delectable slice.

Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake: A Tangy Burst of Sunshine in Every Bite

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