Madeira Cake

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat Oven and Prepare Tin

   4 min

   Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) or Gas Mark 4. While the oven heats, prepare an 18cm (7in) round cake tin by greasing it thoroughly, lining the base with greaseproof paper, and then greasing the paper itself to ensure easy removal after baking.

2. 2

   Cream Butter and Sugar

   4 min

   In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and caster sugar. Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to beat them together until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This aeration is crucial for a light cake texture.

3. 3

   Incorporate Eggs Gradually

   4 min

   Add the eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time. After adding each egg, mix thoroughly until fully incorporated; this helps create a smooth batter. For the last egg, add a tablespoon of self-raising flour to prevent curdling and ensure a stable mixture.

4. 4

   Fold in Flour and Milk

   6 min

   Sift the remaining self-raising flour into the egg mixture. Gently fold it in using a spatula, being careful not to overmix. Add the milk gradually until the batter reaches a smooth consistency that slowly drips from a spoon, and stir in the lemon zest for added flavor.

5. 5

   Pour and Bake Cake

   50 min

   Transfer the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. The cake is done when its top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully baked.

6. 6

   Cool the Cake

   8 min

   Once baked, carefully remove the cake from the oven. Allow it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. This cooling process ensures the cake retains its shape and allows it to cool completely without becoming soggy.

7. 7

   Decorate for Service

   4 min

   To finish, embellish the cooled cake with mixed peel on top for a beautiful presentation. This adds a touch of color and flavor, making it perfect for serving at tea time or special occasions.

FAQ