Indulge in the zesty delight of Madeira Cake Surprise, a classic loaf cake with an irresistible twist! This beautifully moist dessert combines the buttery richness of a traditional Madeira cake with a hidden layer of tangy lemon curd, creating a burst of citrusy surprise in every bite. The recipe is effortlessly simple, featuring pantry staples like self-raising flour, caster sugar, and fresh lemon zest, yet it delivers an elegant treat perfect for afternoon tea or a weekend indulgence. A delicate dusting of powdered sugar tops off this golden loaf, while the subtle balance of sweetness and tartness ensures itβs an instant crowd-pleaser. Ready in just over an hour, this cake makes a stunning centerpiece for gatherings or a comforting homemade dessert to enjoy with coffee.
Preheat your oven to 170Β°C (340Β°F) or 150Β°C (300Β°F) for a fan oven. Grease and line a 1kg (2lb) loaf tin with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and caster sugar together until pale and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric hand mixer.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
Sift the self-raising flour and plain flour into the bowl, then gently fold them into the wet mixture using a spatula or large spoon. Be careful not to overmix.
Mix in the milk and lemon zest until the batter is smooth and of spoon-dropping consistency.
Spoon half of the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing it out with a spatula. Add the lemon curd in dollops across the center of the batter, then gently spread it out into an even layer.
Carefully spoon the remaining batter on top of the lemon curd, making sure it covers the curd completely. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake (avoiding the lemon curd layer) comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a light and elegant finish before serving.
Slice and enjoy your Madeira Cake Surprise with a cup of tea or coffee!
Calories |
3758 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 202.2 g | 259% | |
| Saturated Fat | 112.2 g | 561% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1312 mg | 437% | |
| Sodium | 1949 mg | 85% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 465.4 g | 169% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.9 g | 28% | |
| Total Sugars | 269.5 g | ||
| Protein | 49.5 g | 99% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.6 mcg | 18% | |
| Calcium | 283 mg | 22% | |
| Iron | 8.2 mg | 46% | |
| Potassium | 673 mg | 14% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.