Indulge in the bright, zesty flavors of Lemon Custard Cake, a dessert that perfectly balances the richness of custard with the refreshing tartness of lemon. This delightful cake features a light, airy texture and a luscious lemony flavor that makes it an ideal treat for any occasion, from spring gatherings to summer barbecues. With its creamy custard center and a golden, delicate crust, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served as a light dessert after dinner or as a sweet afternoon snack, this Lemon Custard Cake is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this cake is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Bright and Flavorful: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest brings a refreshing brightness that is irresistible.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, or serve it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients List
To make Lemon Custard Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Stir in the milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust and Serve: Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and serve your delicious Lemon Custard Cake with whipped cream or fresh berries for an added touch.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add Blueberries: Fold in fresh or frozen blueberries for a fruity twist that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
- Different Citrus: Experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a different flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
- Reheating: To serve, allow the cake to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or leave it at room temperature for a few hours. You can enjoy it cold or warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight.
What can I serve with Lemon Custard Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries.
Conclusion
This Lemon Custard Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of bright, citrusy flavors in every bite. Its light and creamy texture combined with the refreshing taste of lemon makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you make in the comments! For more delicious recipes, visit https://eldralys.com/ for culinary inspiration. Enjoy your baking adventure!
