MADEIRA CAKE Recipe

Madeira Cake Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 225g (1 cup) caster sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 225g (1 3/4 cups) self-raising flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 356°F or gas mark 4.
   • Grease and line a 900g loaf tin.
2. Creaming Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Adding Eggs:
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Incorporating Dry Ingredients:
   • Sift in the self-raising flour and baking powder, then gently fold into the batter.
5. Adding Lemon Zest and Vanilla:
   • Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Baking:
   • Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cooling:
   • Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Slice and Serve:
   • Once cooled, slice and serve your delicious Madeira Cake.

Enjoy this classic Madeira Cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat!

History

The Madeira Cake has its origins in the island of Madeira, an autonomous territory of Portugal in the Atlantic Ocean. However, despite the name, it is believed that the cake doesn’t have a direct connection to the island but rather with Madeira wine, which was often served with cakes.

The recipe for Madeira Cake is classic and has withstood the test of time. Its simplicity and flavor have charmed baking enthusiasts for generations. The cake is known for its firm texture and fine crumbs, making it a popular choice to accompany a cup of tea or coffee.

The name “Madeira” may have been associated with this cake due to the tradition of serving thin slices with Madeira wine. The cake, with its balanced combination of basic ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, has captured the hearts of cake lovers worldwide.

Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, adding personal touches and special ingredients. Madeira Cake remains a popular choice for those seeking a simple, comforting, and delicious treat.

Whether enjoyed at special events or as a daily indulgence, Madeira Cake continues to be a beloved part of culinary tradition, reminding us of the beauty found in the simplicity of good baking.