Imagine a dessert that captures the essence of your favorite cocktail in every single bite - that's exactly what this Gin and Tonic Cake delivers! This isn't just another ordinary cake; it's a sophisticated, adult-friendly treat that transforms the classic British cocktail into a mouthwatering culinary experience. With its perfect balance of citrusy lime, botanical gin notes, and tender cake texture, this recipe will instantly become the star of your next gathering, impressing both cocktail enthusiasts and cake lovers alike.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup gin
- 1/2 cup tonic water
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage of the bottom and sides.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light, fluffy, and pale yellow in color, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to maintain a smooth batter consistency.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder to remove any lumps and ensure even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with gin and tonic water. Mix gently to maintain the cake's airiness.
- Add lime zest and lime juice to the batter, stirring carefully to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, you may dust with powdered sugar or create a gin and tonic glaze by mixing powdered sugar with additional gin and tonic water.
Tips
- Use high-quality gin for the best flavor profile - a premium gin will significantly enhance the cake's taste.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to create a smoother, more uniform batter.
- Don't overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Use fresh lime zest and juice for the most vibrant citrus flavor.
- Check the cake's doneness by inserting a toothpick - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding any glaze or powdered sugar topping.
- For an extra boozy kick, you can brush the cooled cake with additional gin before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg

