Simple LOAF CAKES

Three fuss-free sweet treats all made in a 900g tin

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Lemon, thyme and poppy seed cake

A touch of thyme makes this classic loaf extra special – perfect for a picnic.

SERVES 8-10
PREP 20 MINS,
PLUS COOLING AND INFUSING
COOK 55-65 MINS

✱ 3tbsp whole milk
✱ 3 medium eggs
✱ 2tsp vanilla extract
✱ 150g self-raising flour
✱ 150g caster sugar
✱ 1tsp baking powder
✱ Juice and zest of 2 lemons
✱ 3tbsp poppy seeds
✱ 185g unsalted butter, softened
✱ Lemon zest, cut into thin strips, to decorate
✱ Edible flowers, fresh thyme leaves, to decorate (optional)
For the lemon syrup:
✱ 75g caster sugar
✱ 65ml lemon juice
✱ Handful lemon thyme sprigs
For the lemon icing:
✱ 250g icing sugar, sifted
✱ Juice 1 lemon
You will need:
✱ 900g loaf tin, lined with baking paper

1 Heat the oven to 160C Fan/Gas 4. Mix together the milk, eggs and vanilla extract. Mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, a pinch of salt, lemon zest and poppy seeds into a large bowl. Slowly stir in the butter and the egg mixture, beating all the time, until smooth.