Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8 x 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2

(The instructions written here are if you are mixing the batter by hand with a whisk. If you prefer to use an electrix mixer, see notes section for how to mix.) In a large mixing bowl, add self-rising flour and sugar. Whisk until evenly combined. Then perform a quick sift of your mixture by running your whisk rapidly back and forth through the flour until it looks light and powdery.

Step 3

Add in oil, lemon juice and half of the water. Do not add the entire amount of water, otherwise you won't be able to mix your batter. Whisk until your batter is smooth and no flour lumps remain. Once batter is smooth, add in remaining water and whisk again until batter is smooth. Stir in lemon zest.

Step 4

Pour batter into prepared baking pan. Bake for about 35-38 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean and the edges of the cake are lightly browned (the surface of the cake will remain pale). Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing and cutting. If adding frosting, frost cake after it has cooled.