Madeira Cake Recipe: Your Perfect Tea Time Treat

Madeira cake is a classic, buttery pound cake with a hint of lemon, perfect for tea time or a delightful snack.

Ready to bake a cake that even Sherlock Holmes would leave his mysteries for? Buckle up, ’cause you’re about to unlock the secrets of the classic Madeira cake—where golden sponge meets a hint of zesty delight. No missing clues here; we’re diving straight into all the juicy details and tips you need for success.

Madeira Cake Delight

This Madeira Cake is a luscious blend of buttery goodness and a hint of lemon, making it the perfect companion for tea time or a lazy afternoon snack. A classic from British cuisine, its soft, moist texture will have you poking around for more. No need for Madeira wine to enjoy its perks though!

  • Cuisine Type: British
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour
  • Cooking Method: Baking

Ingredients

  • 200g unsalted butter, softened
  • 200g caster sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 300g self-raising flour
  • 50g ground almonds
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Work those arm muscles!
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next.
  4. Add the lemon zest and vanilla extract, and give it a good mix.
  5. Gently fold in the flour and ground almonds, alternating with the milk. Stir until just combined. No overzealous mixing, please.
  6. Pour the batter into your prepared tin and smooth the top. Tap the tin lightly on the counter to release any hidden air bubbles.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. No peeking for the first 45 minutes!
  8. Let the cake cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Bask in the glory of your creation while it cools completely.

Suggestions

  • Alternative Ingredients: Swap the ground almonds with ground hazelnuts or add a touch of orange zest for a citrus twist.
  • Garnishing Options: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with a light lemon glaze, or top with candied fruits.
  • Cooking Tips: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a well-incorporated batter.