A traditional British sponge cake, firm and close-textured, with a lemon juice and zest flavour and classically decorated with a slice of candied citron peel on top. Despite its name, Madeira cake originated in England, where it was served alongside a glass of Madeira wine in the nineteenth century. The rich batter, made with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, produces a sturdy, moist crumb that slices cleanly, making it popular for afternoon tea and as a base for celebration cakes. Its density also makes it ideal for carving into novelty shapes. Properly stored, it keeps well for several days.