Madeira Cake

Madeira Cake is a timeless British sponge cake known for its rich buttery flavor, dense yet soft texture, and slight citrusy undertone. Despite its name, it has no connection to Madeira wine from Portugal; rather, it was traditionally served with a glass of the fortified wine in the 19th century. Today, it remains a popular tea-time delight, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
History and Origins
Madeira Cake dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries in England. It was developed as a simple yet delicious sponge cake that could be enjoyed with sweet wines. Unlike traditional sponge cakes, has a firmer texture, making it ideal for slicing and serving without crumbling.
Key Ingredients
- Butter – Provides richness and moisture
- Sugar – Adds sweetness and enhances texture
- Eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and create a light structure
- Flour – Gives the cake its firm, yet tender consistency
- Lemon Zest or Juice – Adds a subtle citrus flavor
- Baking Powder – Ensures a gentle rise for a soft but dense cake
- Milk (optional) – Can be used to adjust the batter’s consistency
How to Make Madeira Cake
Ingredients:
- 200g unsalted butter (softened)
- 200g caster sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 250g self-raising flour
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp milk (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 170°C (338°F) and grease a loaf tin or round cake pan.
- Cream Butter and Sugar – Beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs – Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients – Sift in the flour and baking powder, then fold into the batter.
- Add Lemon Zest – Mix in the lemon zest and add milk if the batter feels too thick.
- Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for about 50-60 minutes until golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve – Let the cake cool before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- A cup of tea or coffee
- A dollop of whipped cream
- Fresh berries or fruit preserves
- A dusting of icing sugar for extra sweetness
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. It also freezes well when wrapped properly, allowing for longer storage.