Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake

This Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. Moist and tender, this cake is perfect for dessert or as a snack with your afternoon tea. Its simple lemon glaze adds the finishing touch, making it reminiscent of your favorite coffee shop loaf but even better! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, this cake will surely impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe uses just one bowl, making preparation quick and hassle-free.
• Bright Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest create a refreshing taste that’s perfect for any season.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it as a light dessert or serve it with coffee for an afternoon treat.
• Dairy-Free Option: With simple substitutions, you can make this cake dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfectly Moist: The combination of yogurt and butter ensures a moist texture that keeps every slice enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious cake, gather the necessary tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Loaf pan (8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inches or 9×5 inches)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: Essential for easily combining ingredients; a stand mixer saves time and effort.
• Loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking and shapes the cake perfectly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best results in baking.

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Ingredients

To create this delightful gluten free lemon drizzle cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 3/4 cup softened/room temperature butter (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 cup white sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• Zest of 2-3 lemons (depending on flavor preference)
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups gluten free all purpose baking flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon milk (more as needed to thin)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

How to Make Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Grease and line your loaf pan with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes it easy to remove the cake after baking.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a bowl or stand mixer, add the softened butter and sugar. Cream them together for about one minute until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully combined.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add all wet ingredients including Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon extract, and vanilla extract. Beat together until everything is well incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Incorporate the dry ingredients into the mixture. Beat until combined. Taste your batter and adjust with more lemon zest or extract if desired.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then lift it out using the parchment paper and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely (at least one hour).

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While cooling, whisk together all glaze ingredients in a bowl. Adjust with more milk if needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 10: Glaze Your Cake

Once completely cooled, pour the glaze over your loaf. Spread it evenly on top.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

Slice your gluten free lemon drizzle cake into pieces and enjoy! It’s perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself!

How to Serve Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake

Serving your gluten free lemon drizzle cake can elevate your dessert experience. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special occasion, the way you present and accompany this delightful cake can make all the difference.

For Afternoon Tea

• Tea Pairing: Serve with a refreshing herbal tea or classic Earl Grey for a soothing afternoon treat.
• Fruit Slices: Add fresh fruit slices like strawberries or blueberries on the side for a burst of color and flavor.

As a Dessert

• Whipped Topping: Top with dairy-free whipped cream or coconut cream for added richness.
• Ice Cream Scoop: A scoop of lemon sorbet complements the cake’s citrus flavor beautifully.

At Brunch

• Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a vibrant fruit salad to enhance the lightness of this dessert.
• Yogurt Parfait: Pair with layers of yogurt and granola for a balanced brunch option.

For Celebrations

• Decorative Plating: Garnish with extra lemon zest and mint leaves for an elegant presentation at parties.
• Glazed Fruit Topping: Top with glazed berries for an eye-catching finish that adds sweetness.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake

To achieve the best results with your gluten free lemon drizzle cake, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter, leading to a lighter texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your gluten free flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cake.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor; avoid bottled alternatives whenever possible.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to prevent a tough texture; overmixing can lead to disappointment.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so check for doneness 5 minutes before the suggested baking time by inserting a toothpick.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake

Complement your gluten free lemon drizzle cake with these delightful side dishes. Each pairing enhances the flavors while providing variety.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits that adds natural sweetness and balances tartness.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with honey and nuts offers creamy contrast and nutty crunch.
3. Coconut Sorbet: A refreshing frozen treat that pairs beautifully with zesty flavors in the cake.
4. Herbal Tea Selection: Light teas like chamomile or mint provide a calming drink option alongside dessert.
5. Nuts & Dried Fruits Platter: A simple assortment that adds texture and complements citrus notes nicely.
6. Lemonade Spritzer: Sparkling lemonade enhances the lemon flavor while keeping things refreshing.
7. Cheese Board: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting savory contrast to the sweet cake.
8. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add decadence and visual appeal, perfect for celebrations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake, avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your cake turns out perfect every time.

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs. This helps them combine better for a smoother batter.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cake dense. Use the spoon and level method to measure accurately.
• Skipping the zest: Lemon zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; use the zest of 2-3 lemons based on your taste preference.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can lead to tough cake. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not checking doneness: Rely on visual cues alone—always do the toothpick test to ensure it’s fully baked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a plate for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake that might help you in your baking journey.

Can I make this Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute regular butter with non-dairy butter and Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake?

Adding extra lemon zest or lemon extract will boost the citrus flavor beautifully.

What gluten-free flour should I use for this recipe?

A gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend works best. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture.

How long does this Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten Free Lemon Drizzle Cake is not only moist and delicious but also very versatile. You can customize it with different citrus flavors or add poppy seeds for an extra crunch. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its delightful taste!