How to make a madeira cake
If you’re craving a classic British cake that is moist, dense, and absolutely delicious, look no further than Madeira cake. Originating from the picturesque island of Madeira, this traditional cake has become a staple in British baking. Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour, this cake is the perfect treat for any occasion.
To make a Madeira cake, start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and greasing a cake tin with butter. Cream together 200g (7oz) of softened butter and 200g (7oz) of caster sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 4 beaten eggs, one at a time, and mix well.
Next, gently fold in 200g (7oz) of self-raising flour and a pinch of salt. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this could result in a tough cake. Add in the zest of one lemon for a refreshing citrus flavour. Pour the mixture into the greased cake tin and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Once the cake is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the Madeira cake plain, or dust with icing sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. This cake is perfect for afternoon tea, celebrations, or simply as a delicious treat for yourself!
What is a madeira cake?
A madeira cake is a traditional British cake that is dense and buttery with a slightly tangy flavor. It is named after the Portuguese island of Madeira, where it is believed to have originated. Madeira cake is often served at afternoon tea or as a dessert and is a popular choice for special occasions like birthdays and weddings.
The key ingredients in a madeira cake are butter, sugar, eggs, and self-raising flour. The butter and sugar are creamed together until light and fluffy, and then the eggs are added one at a time. The flour is folded in gently to create a thick batter. Some recipes may also include lemon zest or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Unlike other cakes that rely on baking powder or soda for leavening, a madeira cake gets its rise from the eggs. The dense texture of the cake allows it to hold up well to slicing and layering, which makes it a popular choice for wedding cakes and other decorated cakes.
A properly baked madeira cake will have a golden brown crust and a moist crumb. It is often served plain, but can also be frosted or decorated with icing or glaze. Some people like to serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh fruit. Its simple and versatile nature makes it a beloved classic in British baking.
Ingredients
For this delicious madeira cake recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 300g plain flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 250g unsalted butter, softened
- 250g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp whole milk
Note: The ingredient quantities provided are for an 8-inch round cake tin. Adjust accordingly if using a different size tin.
What you’ll need
Before starting to make a Madeira cake, make sure you have the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 225g caster sugar
- 4 medium eggs
- 250g self-raising flour
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for moistness)
Note: You can also add other flavors to the cake, such as vanilla extract or almond extract, if desired.
Equipment:
- 20cm/8-inch round cake tin
- Baking parchment
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Sieve
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Cooling rack
Having these ingredients and equipment ready will ensure a smooth and successful baking process for your Madeira cake.
Step by Step Directions
Follow these simple steps to make a delicious madeira cake:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a 9-inch baking pan with butter.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Once cooled, the madeira cake is ready to be served! Slice and enjoy with a cup of tea or your favorite accompaniment.
Tips and Variations
1. Adding Flavor:
To enhance the flavor of your madeira cake, consider adding different essences or extracts. Some popular options include almond extract, vanilla bean paste, or even a touch of lemon zest. Experiment with different flavors to suit your taste preferences.
2. Glazing:
If you want to give your madeira cake a glossy and delicious finish, you can glaze it. One popular glaze option is a simple lemon glaze made with freshly squeezed lemon juice and powdered sugar. Drizzle the glaze on top of the cake and allow it to set before serving.
3. Serving Suggestions:
Madeira cake can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs well with various accompaniments. Serve it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh berries for a delightful summer treat. You can also serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon indulgence.
Remember to store your madeira cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh for longer. Enjoy the buttery and moist goodness of this classic sponge cake!
Tips for a Perfect Madeira Cake
Madeira cake is a classic sponge cake that is highly versatile and enjoyed by many. To ensure your madeira cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
1. Use the Right Flour
Choosing the right flour is crucial to achieving the proper texture and taste of your madeira cake. Opt for plain flour or all-purpose flour, as these have the right balance of protein to produce a tender and moist cake.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar Well
The first step in making a madeira cake is creaming the butter and sugar. This process helps to introduce air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter cake. Use an electric mixer and beat the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy. This can take several minutes, so be patient.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Once you’ve added the eggs and flour, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, making sure there are no streaks of flour remaining.
4. Line the Cake Tin Properly
Madeira cake tends to take longer to bake than other cakes, so it’s important to line your cake tin properly. Use parchment or baking paper to line the sides and bottom of the tin. This will help the cake bake evenly and prevent it from sticking to the tin.
5. Bake at the Right Temperature
Preheat your oven to the correct temperature specified in the recipe. Baking at the right temperature is crucial to achieving a perfectly baked madeira cake. Too low, and the cake may sink in the middle; too high, and it may become dry on the outside.
6. Check for Doneness
To ensure your madeira cake is cooked through, insert a skewer into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs clinging to it, the cake is done. However, if the skewer comes out wet with batter, it needs more time in the oven.
| Temperature Conversion | Celsius | Fahrenheit |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Mark 1 | 140˚C | 275˚F |
| Gas Mark 2 | 150˚C | 300˚F |
| Gas Mark 4 | 180˚C | 350˚F |
Keep these tips in mind as you embark on making a madeira cake. With proper technique and attention to detail, you’ll be able to enjoy a perfect madeira cake every time.
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