Being a home baker is a balancing act. It’s not just about baking cakes; it’s about fitting them into the cracks of life. Juggling orders, managing a household, and for some, maintaining another full-time job. There have been countless moments where I’ve wanted to give up. The long hours in the kitchen, the late nights baking and decorating, and the constant pressure to meet deadlines—sometimes it feels overwhelming.
But even on those difficult days, when inspiration was low and exhaustion was high, I kept going. Why? Because baking wasn’t just about fulfilling an order; it was about sharing a piece of myself with every customer. Every cake I made contained more than flour and sugar—it contained my love, passion, and my journey.
When I bake, I’m not just offering a slice of cake; I’m offering a piece of my life. The struggles, the victories, the lessons learned along the way. Baking with excellence means more than perfecting the taste or design—it’s about the experience, the joy, and the memories it creates for others.
To those fellow home bakers who feel the weight of the daily grind, remember this: you are not just creating desserts, you are creating happiness. Keep baking, keep sharing, because you never know whose life you’re touching with each creation.
• 225g unsalted butter, softened
• 225g sugar
• 4 eggs
• 225g self-raising flour
• 1 lemon, zest only
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 85g powdered sugar
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a loaf tin.
2. Beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well.
4. Fold in the flour and lemon zest.
5. Pour the mixture into the tin and bake for 45-50 minutes.
6. While the cake is baking, mix the lemon juice and powdered sugar to create the drizzle.
7. Once the cake is out of the oven, prick it with a fork and pour over the drizzle.
8. Let it cool and enjoy the tangy sweetness.