Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake is a delicious, moist, and zesty dessert made famous by the popular British TV chefs, the Hairy Bikers (Dave Myers and Simon King). Known for their approachable and hearty cooking style, the Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake is a perfect blend of tangy lemon and soft, light sponge cake, topped with a sweet and slightly tangy lemon syrup drizzle.

It is loved for its refreshing citrus flavor and balance of sweetness and tartness. Whether you’re serving it for afternoon tea, a family gathering, or just a simple dessert, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The magic of this cake lies in the simple yet effective use of fresh lemon zest and juice, both of which infuse the cake with a vibrant flavor. Additionally, the lemon syrup poured over the cake adds a glossy, moist finish, enhancing both the texture and flavor. It’s a wonderful option for anyone who enjoys citrusy baked goods.

Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create the Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Cake

• 225g unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 225g caster sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 225g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1-2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp whole milk (or more, depending on consistency)

For The Drizzle

• Juice of 2 lemons
• 100g granulated sugar

These ingredients combine to make a cake that is soft, light, and bursting with fresh citrus flavors. The addition of lemon zest and juice not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the cake’s moist and tender texture.

Equipment Needed

Before diving into baking, ensure you have these essential tools ready:

• Cake tin: A 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin, greased and lined with parchment paper for easy release.
• Electric mixer or whisk: While you can mix the cake batter by hand, an electric mixer will make it easier and more efficient.
• Large mixing bowl: For creaming the butter and sugar together and mixing the dry ingredients.
• Sieve: For sifting the flour and ensuring there are no lumps in the batter.
• Zester or grater: To zest the lemons and release all the aromatic oils.
• Measuring spoons and scales: For accurate measurements of the ingredients.
• Cooling rack: To allow the cake to cool evenly and avoid sogginess after drizzling the syrup.

These tools will help streamline the process, ensuring a successful bake every time.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), or 160°C (320°F) for fan-assisted ovens. This ensures that the oven reaches the right temperature before you place the cake inside.

2. Prepare the Cake Tin:
   Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the cake once it’s baked.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and caster sugar using an electric mixer or whisk. Cream until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is key to creating a light texture in your cake.

4. Add the Eggs:
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a tablespoon of flour to help bring it together.

5. Sift the Dry Ingredients:
   Sift the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt into a separate bowl. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or spoon to combine.

6. Add the Lemon Zest and Juice:
   Stir in the zest of the two lemons and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter. The lemon zest gives the cake its distinct citrus fragrance, while the juice adds moisture and flavor.

7. Adjust the Consistency:
   If the batter seems too thick, add a little milk (about 1-2 tablespoons) to loosen it slightly. The consistency should be thick but drop easily from a spoon.

8. Bake the Cake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so be sure to check the cake at around 25 minutes.

9. Prepare the Lemon Drizzle:
   While the cake is baking, make the drizzle. In a small saucepan, heat the lemon juice and sugar over low heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Stir occasionally. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove it from the heat.

10. Drizzle the Syrup:
    When the cake is out of the oven, leave it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the cake from the tin and place it on a wire rack. While it’s still warm, pour the lemon syrup over the top, allowing it to soak into the cake.

11. Allow to Cool:
    Let the cake cool completely, and the syrup will create a sweet, tangy glaze on top.

12. Serve and Enjoy:
    Once cooled, slice and serve the cake. The lemon drizzle cake is perfect for afternoon tea or a simple dessert to enjoy any time of the day.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice if you want a truly vibrant cake.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix just enough to incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ones.
• Test the Cake: Always check the cake for doneness by inserting a skewer or toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready to come out of the oven.
• Drizzle While Warm: Pour the syrup over the cake while it is still warm so that it can soak in more effectively.
• Storage: The cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the lemon syrup soaks in more.

Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake is a fantastic, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the tangy zest of lemon with the moist, soft texture of a homemade sponge cake. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful treat that will impress friends and family alike.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe offers a straightforward yet delightful way to make a cake that is both light and bursting with citrus flavor. So, roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to a slice of this iconic British favorite!.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake is a beloved classic, praised for its moist crumb, zesty lemon flavor, and irresistible syrup drizzle. However, sometimes we want to elevate or adjust the recipe slightly to add a personal touch. Whether you’re after an extra kick of flavor or a healthier alternative, here are some simple twists to consider.

1. Add Fresh Herbs or Spices:
   The citrusy brightness of lemon can be complemented with herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary. Adding finely chopped rosemary to the batter gives the cake an earthy depth that contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon. Alternatively, a pinch of ginger or cardamom will warm the flavors up, giving the cake a subtle spicy complexity.

2. Swap White Sugar for Honey or Maple Syrup:
   For a more natural sweetness, swap out the white sugar with honey or maple syrup in both the cake and the drizzle. Honey will enhance the cake’s moistness and impart a floral note, while maple syrup offers a rich, caramel-like undertone. Ensure you reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe slightly to account for the extra moisture from these sweeteners.

3. Add a Berry Twist:
   Incorporating berries into the cake batter can add another layer of flavor and color. Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries not only introduce a delightful burst of fruitiness but also create a beautiful visual contrast with the yellow lemon cake. You could either fold them into the batter or scatter them on top before baking to create a delightful jammy texture when the cake is sliced.

4. Make it Gluten-Free:
   For those with dietary restrictions, it’s simple to make the Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake gluten-free by swapping the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to add a tablespoon of cornstarch to help with the cake’s structure and texture, ensuring it stays light and airy.

5. Use a Different Citrus:
   While lemon is the classic choice, the cake’s zingy flavor can be reinvented by using other citrus fruits like orange, lime, or even a combination. Blood orange, for instance, can bring a stunning color and unique tang, while lime zest and juice will create a more tropical, refreshing taste.

These small adjustments to the recipe allow you to personalize the cake and give it your own signature flair while still honoring the original, delicious lemony essence.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Lemon drizzle cake, with its moist crumb and sugary syrup topping, can be a bit delicate when it comes to storage. Here’s how you can keep it fresh for as long as possible:

1. Room Temperature Storage:
   If you plan on finishing the cake within 2-3 days, it can be stored at room temperature. Simply wrap it in cling film or store it in an airtight container to keep it from drying out. Ensure that it’s kept in a cool, dry place-avoid direct sunlight or places with high humidity, which can affect the texture of the cake and syrup.

2. Refrigeration for Extended Freshness:
   If you need to keep the cake for longer, storing it in the fridge is your best option. However, do keep in mind that refrigeration can slightly alter the texture, making it less moist. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with cling film to prevent it from absorbing any odors in the fridge. It should last for about 4-5 days this way.

3. Freezing Leftovers:
   For even longer storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When stored properly, it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the cake at room temperature for a few hours. If you have the time, consider microwaving a slice for a few seconds to restore its fresh-from-the-oven warmth.

4. Reheating Tips:
   While the cake is delicious fresh, reheating leftovers can be just as satisfying. Gently warm the slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them into the oven at a low temperature (about 150°C / 300°F) for 5-10 minutes. This will revive some of the moisture and enhance the aroma, making it feel like a freshly baked treat.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake?

While the Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake is a treat on its own, it pairs beautifully with other dishes and beverages to elevate the experience:

1. Tea:
   Lemon drizzle cake and tea are a match made in heaven. A strong, black tea like Earl Grey or English Breakfast complements the citrusy tang of the cake, while herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint offer a gentle, calming balance.

2. Berries and Cream:
   A simple side of fresh berries (think strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries) with a dollop of whipped cream can turn your cake into a complete dessert. The cream’s richness helps to mellow the tartness of the lemon drizzle, while the berries add freshness and vibrant color.

3. Yogurt Parfait:
   For a more decadent treat, layer your cake with Greek yogurt and granola to create a refreshing parfait. The yogurt’s tanginess works wonderfully with the sweet lemon, and the crunch of granola adds an enjoyable texture contrast.

4. Ice Cream:
   For a cool twist, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet. The sorbet will mirror the lemony flavors, while the ice cream introduces a creamy sweetness that balances the cake’s tangy glaze.

5. Cheese Pairings:
   Surprisingly, cheese can pair very well with the zesty flavors of lemon drizzle cake. Cream cheese, mascarpone, or even a sharp cheddar can provide a savory counterpart to the cake’s sweetness, creating an unexpected and delightful combination.

Conclusion

The Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake is already a staple for its moist, flavorful crumb and invigorating citrus glaze. However, with just a few adjustments, you can make the recipe your own and keep it exciting.

Whether it’s infusing herbs, swapping sweeteners, or introducing a new citrus, these twists can keep your taste buds on their toes. Storing the cake properly ensures that each slice remains just as delicious as the last, and when paired with complementary foods and drinks, it transforms into a versatile treat for all occasions. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served alongside fresh fruit, it’s a cake that is sure to delight at any time of day.

FAQs

What Makes The Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake Different From Other Lemon Drizzle Cakes?

The Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake stands out due to its light and fluffy texture, achieved by using a combination of self-raising flour and a good amount of butter. The cake is infused with fresh lemon zest, giving it a vibrant citrus flavor, while the drizzle is made with a mixture of lemon juice and sugar, which soaks into the cake, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I Use Other Citrus Fruits In The Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake Recipe?

While the Hairy Bikers’ recipe is specifically designed for lemon, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges or limes. However, if substituting, keep in mind that the flavor profile will change. Oranges will make the cake sweeter and less tangy, while limes can add a slightly sharper taste, but it still pairs wonderfully with the cake’s buttery texture.

How Can I Ensure My Hairy Bikers’ Lemon Drizzle Cake Doesn’t Dry Out?

To prevent your cake from drying out, it’s important to follow the recipe carefully, particularly the baking times and temperatures. Overbaking can result in a dry cake, so always check the cake with a skewer before the recommended baking time is up. Additionally, ensuring that the drizzle is poured over the cake while it is still warm will help keep the cake moist as the syrup is absorbed.