The Perfect Madeira Cake Recipe: Golden, Buttery Bliss

Sweet memories of childhood baking often revolve around classic madeira cake, a beloved British treat that whispers comfort with every slice.

Buttery crumbs melt deliciously on your tongue, promising rich flavor and tender texture.

Generations have cherished this simple yet elegant dessert from england.

Soft vanilla notes dance through each golden bite, creating a nostalgic experience.

Simple ingredients come together effortlessly in this timeless recipe that feels like a warm hug.

Bakers of all skill levels can confidently create this delightful cake that pairs perfectly with afternoon tea.

Let’s unlock the secrets of this delectable classic and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

FAQ Guide For Nigella Madeira Cake

• What ingredients give Madeira Cake its signature flavor?

Lemon zest and a hint of lemon juice provide the classic citrusy taste, while the simple combination of butter, flour, and sugar creates its distinctive rich and tender crumb.

• Is Madeira Cake difficult to make for beginners?

No, it’s a straightforward recipe that requires basic baking skills. The key is to cream the butter and sugar well, add eggs carefully, and fold in flour gently to maintain a light texture.

• Why is it called Madeira Cake when it doesn't contain Madeira wine?

The cake originated in England during the 19th century and was traditionally served alongside Madeira wine. Despite its name, no wine is used in the actual recipe.

Why People Love Nigella Madeira Cake

• Bake with Minimal Fuss: This Madeira cake requires simple ingredients and straightforward mixing techniques, making it perfect for bakers who want a hassle-free dessert without complicated steps.
• Create a Versatile Treat: Perfect for afternoon tea, casual gatherings, or a comforting snack, this cake adapts to multiple occasions and pairs wonderfully with fruits, cream, or enjoyed plain.
• Craft a Classic British Delight: Rooted in traditional British baking, this recipe offers a nostalgic taste that connects you to generations of home bakers with its delightful lemon-infused flavor and tender crumb.
• Master Beginner-Friendly Baking: Designed for novice bakers, the recipe guides you through easy techniques like creaming butter and sugar, folding ingredients, and achieving a beautiful golden-brown finish without advanced skills.

What’s In Nigella Madeira Cake

• Butter: A rich, creamy base that provides moisture and flavor to the cake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake's structure.
• Flour: The primary dry ingredient that gives the cake its substance.

• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Bright citrus notes that add a fresh, tangy dimension to the cake.

• Sugar (Topping): A sprinkle of sugar creates a delightful crisp top and adds extra sweetness.

How To Prepare Nigella Madeira Cake At Home

Step 1: Whip Butter and Sugar

Grab your electric mixer and blend softened butter with sugar and fresh lemon zest until the mixture becomes light, airy, and super creamy. The key is to beat until the texture looks fluffy and pale.

Step 2: Incorporate Eggs Carefully

Add eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition. If the batter looks like it’s starting to separate, sprinkle a small amount of flour to help stabilize and smooth out the consistency.

Step 3: Blend Dry and Wet Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Self-rising flour
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice

Stir with a light hand to maintain the delicate air bubbles you’ve created.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the batter into a pre-lined loaf pan. Sprinkle a delicate layer of granulated sugar across the top for a delightful crispy crust.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the cake in a preheated oven at 170°F (150°F for fan-forced ovens). Bake for approximately one hour until a golden brown color emerges and a skewer comes out clean when inserted.

Step 6: Cool and Rest

Allow the cake to cool completely inside the baking tin. This helps the cake set and makes removing it easier.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the Madeira cake and serve it as a standalone treat or dress it up with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Easy Tips For Nigella Madeira Cake Success

• Prevent Curdling: Add a tablespoon of flour when beating eggs to stop mixture from separating and maintain smooth texture.
• Boost Lemon Flavor: Use fresh lemon zest and juice for vibrant, bright citrus notes that enhance the cake's overall taste.
• Check Cake Doneness: Insert a skewer into the center – if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
• Even Baking Trick: Rotate the cake tin halfway through baking to ensure uniform golden-brown color and consistent texture.
• Storage Secret: Wrap cooled cake in parchment and store in an airtight container to keep it moist for up to 3-4 days.

Change Up Your Nigella Madeira Cake Style

• Gluten-Free Madeira: Replace wheat flour with almond or rice flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Citrus Swap: Substitute lemon zest with orange or lime zest for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter and plant-based milk to create a vegan-friendly cake.
• Spiced Variation: Add ground cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a warming, aromatic touch.

What Pairs Nicely With Nigella Madeira Cake

• Pair with Citrus-Infused Tea: Brew a light Earl Grey or lemon-chamomile tea that complements the cake's delicate lemon notes and enhances its subtle sweetness.
• Create a Creamy Companion: Serve with a dollop of vanilla-infused Chantilly cream or a smooth mascarpone cream to add luxurious richness and balance the cake's light texture.
• Elevate with Fresh Berries: Garnish with macerated raspberries or strawberries, which bring a bright, tangy contrast to the cake's buttery, soft crumb and highlight its citrusy undertones.
• Match with Sweet Dessert Wine: Pour a small glass of Sauternes or a light moscato, whose honeyed sweetness and fruity profile will beautifully echo the cake's gentle lemon flavor.

The Best Way To Store Nigella Madeira Cake

• Store cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
• Wrap completely cooled cake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
• Cut cake into individual portions, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes.
• Warm slightly in microwave for 10-15 seconds or let sit at room temperature for soft, fresh texture. Avoid overheating to maintain moisture.

Madeira Cake Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Madeira cake offers a classic British delight with its tender crumb and citrusy charm. Bakers craving a simple yet elegant dessert will love this traditional treat that pairs perfectly with afternoon tea or a quiet moment of indulgence.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 240 grams (8.5 ounces) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 200 grams (7 ounces) caster sugar

Flour:

• 210 grams (7.4 ounces) self-raising flour
• 90 grams (3.2 ounces) plain flour

Flavoring:

• Zest of 1 unwaxed lemon
• Juice of 1 unwaxed lemon
• Extra caster sugar for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Whip butter, sugar, and fragrant lemon zest in a mixing bowl until light and airy, creating a smooth, pale mixture.
2. Incorporate eggs individually, carefully mixing after each addition, and sprinkle a touch of flour if the batter appears curdled to maintain smooth consistency.
3. Gently fold flour and flour mixture into the creamy base, drizzling lemon juice to enhance flavor, ensuring minimal stirring to preserve the cake’s delicate texture.
4. Transfer the silky batter into a parchment-lined loaf pan, creating an even surface and generously sprinkling granulated sugar across the top for a delightful caramelized crust.
5. Position the cake in a preheated oven at 170°C (150°C fan), allowing it to bake for approximately 60 minutes until a golden-brown exterior develops and a skewer inserted emerges clean.
6. Allow the freshly baked cake to rest within the tin, gradually cooling and stabilizing its structure for easier removal.
7. Carefully release the cake from the pan, revealing its perfectly risen form, and slice into elegant portions ready to be enjoyed alongside fresh berries, whipped cream, or simply savored on its own.

Notes

• Use room temperature butter and eggs for smoother mixing and better texture.
• Add flour gradually when beating eggs to prevent curdling and maintain a silky batter consistency.
• Sift dry ingredients before folding to eliminate lumps and ensure even distribution of flour.
• Modify the recipe for gluten-free diets by substituting regular flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 385
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 65mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 85mg