Lime Sponge Cakes

Our answer

Nigella's Mini Lime Syrup Sponge cakes (from Domestic Goddess) uses two limes. The zest of one is used in the cake and the juice and zest of one is used in the syrup and for decoration. The zest of citrus fruits contains a lot of flavour and it is contained in oils in the zest. So it is best to use the zest in the cake batter, rather than using juice. Also adding juice to the cake batter can affect the acidity of the mixture and the way that it will rise.

If you are missing the zest for the decoration then you could instead try removing the pith from one of the limes and using small segments of the lime instead. If you are not confident about removing the pith (using a small serrated knife) then just cut the lime in half lengthways and then as thinly as you can. Top each cake with a thin slice of lime just before serving.