Step 1

Prepare a 9 by 13 pan. Spray and line with parchment

Step 2

Preheat the oven. (165°C/330°F).If using fan-forced setting reduce by 20°

Step 3

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature

Step 4

Sift flour with baking powder, a couple of times

Step 5

Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy

Step 6

Add one egg at a time beating to clear after each addition

Step 7

Then add flour and milk/buttermilk alternating, beating at the slowest speed

Step 8

Alternatively, fold by hand using a spatula

Step 9

Once done, add vanilla and lemon zest (if you are adding) and gently mix

Step 10

Deposit the batter into the pan, level and drop the pan on the counter top to remove air bubbles

Step 11

Place in the oven and bake for about 50-55 minutes. Check at 45 minute mark for doneness. May need longer.

Step 12

Once baked, remove from the oven and brush with simple syrup (optional) and leave to cool

Step 13

Once fully cooled, cut into pieces using s serrated knife and serve