Baking a delicious, zesty lemon drizzle cake is easier than you think, even if you’re new to gluten-free baking! This beginner-friendly recipe delivers a moist, tangy cake with a crisp, sugary lemon glaze that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just exploring new recipes, this guide will walk you through every step to create a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and easy-to-find gluten-free flour.
- Beginner-Friendly: No advanced baking skills required—just mix, bake, and drizzle!
- Bright and Zesty: The fresh lemon flavor is refreshing and satisfying.
- Gluten-Free Perfection: Soft, fluffy texture without any gluten.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups (180g) gluten-free all-purpose flour (ensure it contains xanthan gum)
- 1 tsp baking powder (gluten-free)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup (120ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Drizzle:
- ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Equipment Needed
- 8x4-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or fine grater
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x4-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a whisk or electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The mixture may look slightly curdled—this is normal!Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients (flour, milk, flour, milk, flour). Mix until just combined—don’t 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 in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil after 30 minutes.Make the Lemon Drizzle
While the cake bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice in a small bowl. Add more juice if needed for a pourable consistency.Cool and Drizzle
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. While still warm, poke holes across the top with a toothpick and slowly pour the lemon drizzle over the cake, letting it soak in.Serve and Enjoy
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat!
Tips for Success
- Check Your Flour: Not all gluten-free flours are equal. Use a blend designed for baking, and ensure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the batter mix smoothly and evenly.
- Don’t Skip the Zest: Lemon zest adds intense flavor without extra liquid.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Why Gluten-Free Baking is Easier Than You Think
Gluten-free baking can feel intimidating, but recipes like this lemon drizzle cake prove it’s approachable. Modern gluten-free flour blends mimic traditional flour, so you don’t need to be a pro to get great results. Plus, the bright lemon flavor hides any subtle differences in texture, making this a perfect starter recipe.
Variations to Try
- Lemon-Blueberry Twist: Fold in ¾ cup fresh blueberries to the batter.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and an egg replacer (like flax eggs).
- Extra Zing: Add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter for a bolder flavor.
Final Thoughts
This gluten-free lemon drizzle cake is a fantastic way to dip your toes into gluten-free baking. Its vibrant flavor and straightforward steps make it a go-to recipe for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Try it for your next gathering, or enjoy a slice as a sunny pick-me-up!
Happy baking, and let us know how your cake turns out in the comments below!