Decorated Madeira Cake

Madeira cake is a good type of cake to make if you want something strong that will not crumble if you carve it or decorate it. This is the reason I chose to make a Madeira Cake, as I made one square base, and I wanted to carve another cake into a heart shape to place on top. I have placed the recipe for the Madeira Cake below (not what was used for decoration, as this will vary depending on what you want - although feel free to ask if you are interested). I have also written the recipe to make one small Madeira Cake (18cm cake tin)

1. Using an electric whisk, cream together the butter and sugar on high speed for around 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy
2. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking in between to ensure they become well incorporated.
3. Add the vanilla extract and whisk for around 2 minutes until bubbles appear on the surface
4. Add the sifted flour and the lemon zest, then fold them in using a metal spoon until smooth
5. Spoon the mixture into a greased and lined (with baking paper) 18cm cake tin, and bake on 180 degrees Celsius for 45-55 mins, or until a skewer comes out clean
6. Leave the cake in the tin for a few minutes before transferring onto a wire rack to cool completely

Enjoyed making this cake, and most importantly, decorating it, so I hope you enjoy it too :)