Lemon Drizzle Cake

Step 1

Heat oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas 4.

Step 2

Beat together 225g softened unsalted butter and 225g caster sugar until pale and creamy, then add 4 eggs, one at a time, slowly mixing through.

Step 3

Sift in 225g self-raising flour, then add the finely grated zest of 1 lemon and mix until well combined.

Step 4

Line a loaf tin (8 x 21cm) with greaseproof paper, then spoon in the mixture and level the top with a spoon.

Step 5

Bake for 45-50 mins until a thin skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean.

Step 6

While the cake is cooling in its tin, mix together the juice of 1 ½ lemons and 85g caster sugar to make the drizzle.

Step 7

Prick the warm cake all over with a skewer or fork, then pour over the drizzle – the juice will sink in and the sugar will form a lovely, crisp topping.

Step 8

Leave in the tin until completely cool, then remove and serve. Will keep in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.