Introduction

Lemon cake is a delightful dessert that combines the zesty flavor of lemons with a moist and airy texture. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or simply a treat to enjoy with afternoon tea, this recipe is sure to impress. In this article, we will walk you through the ingredients, preparation, and cooking time necessary to create a delicious lemon cake.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 3 medium lemons
– 180 grams of granulated sugar
– 3 eggs
– 120 grams of unsalted butter (softened)
– 210 grams of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– A pinch of salt
– 120 milliliters of milk

Prep Time

The preparation time for this lemon cake is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering all the ingredients, zesting and juicing the lemons, and mixing the batter.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cake takes about 40 to 45 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, from prep to serving, you can expect the process to take around 1 hour. This recipe yields a cake that can serve approximately 8 to 10 people, making it a perfect size for sharing.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pan

Grease a cake pan with butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs

Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 6: Incorporate Lemon Zest and Juice

Mix in the lemon zest and lemon juice to the butter-sugar mixture.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 8: Pour the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 9: Bake the Cake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the cake once it has cooled completely, enjoying it fresh or after a few hours for enhanced flavors.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

This lemon cake pairs beautifully with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple lemon glaze.

Storage Instructions

To store, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Serving Temperature

This cake can be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled for a refreshing taste.

Variation Suggestions

Feel free to add poppy seeds or use other citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits for a different flavor profile.

Cook techniques

Zesting

Zesting involves removing the outer skin of citrus fruits, such as lemons, to extract essential oils and enhance flavor. Use a microplane or a zester for best results.

Juicing

Juicing lemons is crucial for obtaining fresh lemon juice. Roll the lemon on a countertop before cutting it in half to maximize the juice yield. Use a handheld juicer or a fork to extract the juice.

Beating Eggs

When beating eggs, aim for a fluffy texture. Use a whisk or an electric mixer and beat until the mixture is light and frothy, which helps incorporate air and achieve volume in your cake.

Incorporating Ingredients

Gently fold in ingredients like flour or lemon zest using a spatula to keep the batter light and airy. Avoid overmixing, as it can lead to a denser cake.

Baking

Preheat the oven to the recommended temperature before placing the cake inside. Baking at the correct temperature ensures even cooking and helps the cake rise properly.

FAQ

What can I substitute for lemon juice?

You can use other citrus juices such as lime or orange juice, but keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it moist.

How should I store leftover cake?

Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I freeze the lemon cake?

Yes, the lemon cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months.

Conclusion

The lemon cake is a delightful addition to any dessert repertoire. Its bright and tangy flavor makes it perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread. With its moist texture and refreshing profile, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Lemon and Blueberry Cake

Combine the zesty flavor of lemon with sweet blueberries for a delicious twist on the classic lemon cake.

Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Transform your lemon cake into muffins by adding poppy seeds for a delightful brunch treat.

Lemon Drizzle Bundt Cake

Bake a bundt version of the lemon cake and drizzle a lemon glaze over it for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Coconut Lemon Cake

Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical variation that complements the lemon beautifully.

Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Top your lemon cake with a rich cream cheese frosting flavored with lemon for a creamy, tangy finish.

Almond Lemon Cake

Enhance the flavor profile by adding almond extract, creating a rich and nutty lemon cake.