This Lemon Drizzle Traybake Cake is soft, moist, and packed with fresh lemon flavor. Topped with a simple lemon glaze, it’s the ultimate fuss-free citrus treat!
Author:Beth
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:12 squares 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:British
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 cups self-rising flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Zest of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ cup milk (whole or semi-skimmed)
For the Lemon Drizzle
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
For the Glaze (Optional, for extra sweetness)
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
Make the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Sift in the self-rising flour and baking powder, then gently fold into the mixture.
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and milk, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared tray and spread evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Make the Lemon Drizzle
While the cake is baking, mix the granulated sugar and lemon juice together in a small bowl.
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, poke small holes all over the surface using a skewer or fork.
Pour the lemon drizzle evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in.
Optional Glaze
Once the cake has cooled, mix the powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a thick glaze. Drizzle over the top for extra sweetness.
Serving & Storage
Slice into squares and serve at room temperature.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Notes
For an extra citrusy kick, add a little lemon extract to the batter.
Swap self-rising flour for all-purpose flour + 2 teaspoons baking powder if needed.
Try topping with lemon zest or candied lemon slices for decoration!