Name: Jamie Oliver Lemon Drizzle Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups) – Provides structure for the cake.; Baking Powder (1 ½ tsp) – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.; Butter (½ cup, softened) – Adds richness and moisture to the cake.; Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the cake and balances the tartness.; Eggs (3 large) – Adds structure and richness to the batter.; Lemon Zest (from 2 lemons) – Provides fresh lemony flavor.; Milk (¼ cup) – Adds moisture to the cake for a tender crumb.; Powdered Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the glaze.; Lemon Juice (from 2 lemons) – Adds tartness and flavor to the drizzle.

A lemon drizzle cake is a beloved classic with its moist texture and zesty flavor. Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Drizzle Cake brings an extra burst of lemony goodness with a light sponge and sweet, tangy drizzle. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is refreshing, simple to make, and absolutely delightful with tea or coffee.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Drizzle Cake?

Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Drizzle Cake is a moist and tender sponge cake infused with fresh lemon zest and juice. After baking, the cake is drizzled with a lemon-sugar glaze that soaks into the sponge, creating a deliciously tangy and sweet flavor. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for spring or summer, but its bright flavor can bring a touch of sunshine any time of year.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Bursting with Lemon Flavor – Fresh lemon zest and juice create a vibrant, tangy flavor.
Moist and Tender Texture – The lemon drizzle keeps the cake soft and moist.
Simple Ingredients – Made with everyday ingredients from the pantry.

Quick and Easy to Make – Perfect for bakers of all levels.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for afternoon tea, birthdays, or dessert.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Drizzle Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious lemon drizzle cake:

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups) – Provides structure for the cake.
Baking Powder (1 ½ tsp) – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Butter (½ cup, softened) – Adds richness and moisture to the cake.

Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the cake and balances the tartness.
Eggs (3 large) – Adds structure and richness to the batter.
Lemon Zest (from 2 lemons) – Provides fresh lemony flavor.

Milk (¼ cup) – Adds moisture to the cake for a tender crumb.

For the Lemon Drizzle

Powdered Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the glaze.
Lemon Juice (from 2 lemons) – Adds tartness and flavor to the drizzle.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Drizzle Cake

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Lemon Zest: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make the Lemon Drizzle: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth.
Drizzle Over the Cake: While the cake is still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke small holes across the top, then pour the lemon drizzle over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

What Goes Well with Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Drizzle Cake

Tea or Coffee – The perfect pairing to balance the sweetness and tang.
Fresh Berries – Adds a pop of color and complementary flavor.
Whipped Cream – For a light, creamy contrast to the tangy lemon.

Lemon Curd – A spread of lemon curd enhances the lemony flavor.
Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream is a refreshing addition.
Mint Leaves – For a fresh and fragrant garnish.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Lemon Drizzle Cake

Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh lemon juice and zest make all the difference for a bright, tangy flavor.
Avoid Overmixing – Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense; mix just until combined.
Let the Drizzle Soak In – Pour the lemon drizzle while the cake is still warm for the best absorption.

Line the Pan – Lining with parchment paper ensures easy removal and helps prevent sticking.
Adjust Sugar to Taste – If you prefer a less sweet cake, slightly reduce the sugar in the drizzle.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Lemon Drizzle Cake

Add Poppy Seeds – Stir in a tablespoon of poppy seeds for a classic lemon-poppy twist.

Swap with Lime or Orange – Try lime or orange zest and juice for a different citrus flavor.
Add Almond Extract – Add a touch of almond extract for a subtle, nutty flavor.
Vanilla Icing Drizzle – Replace the lemon drizzle with a vanilla glaze for a sweeter variation.

Blueberry Lemon Drizzle Cake – Fold fresh blueberries into the batter for a fruity addition.
Gluten-Free Version – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Lemon Drizzle Cake

Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Refrigerate for Longer Storage – Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.
Freeze for Future Use – Wrap slices in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Lemon Drizzle Cake

Microwave – Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Serve at Room Temperature – For best flavor, allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature before serving.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Lemon Drizzle Cake Healthier?

Reduce Sugar – Decrease the sugar in the cake and drizzle to cut down on sweetness.
Use Whole Wheat Flour – Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Use Greek Yogurt – Swap some of the butter for Greek yogurt to reduce fat content.
Add Fresh Berries – Fold in blueberries or raspberries for natural sweetness and nutrients.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 270

Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 4g

Fiber: 1g

FAQs

How do I make my lemon drizzle cake more moist?

To make lemon drizzle cake extra moist, ensure you don’t overbake it, as this can dry it out. Use room-temperature ingredients and add the lemon drizzle while the cake is still warm so it absorbs fully into the sponge. For added moisture, you can also replace part of the butter with Greek yogurt.

Can I freeze lemon drizzle cake?

Yes, lemon drizzle cake freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a quick treat.

Why is my lemon drizzle cake dense?

A dense lemon drizzle cake can result from overmixing the batter, which activates the gluten and makes the cake tough. Make sure to mix just until the ingredients are combined. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as old baking powder can affect the rise.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. However, fresh lemons are recommended, especially for zest, as they enhance the cake with a vibrant, natural lemon aroma and taste.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Drizzle Cake is a beautiful, zesty treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of moist sponge and tangy drizzle creates a refreshing dessert that’s light yet full of flavor.

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