Lemon cake is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of freshness to your table. Its zesty flavor and moist texture make it a favorite for many. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, hosting a casual get-together, or simply craving something sweet, lemon cake fits the bill. Here’s a simple and easy recipe for a classic lemon cake that anyone can make at home.
Why make this recipe
Making lemon cake at home is rewarding. The tangy flavor from the lemon juice combined with the sweetness of the cake creates a perfect balance. It is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its bright yellow color. This lemon cake recipe is easy to follow and does not require any fancy ingredients or equipment. It is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, and the preparation time is short. Moreover, a homemade lemon cake can impress your friends and family, and it’s a fantastic way to brighten up any meal.
How to make Lemon Cake
Follow these simple steps to create a delightful lemon cake that will have everyone asking for seconds. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the baking time is around 40 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs (150 grams)
- 150 grams sugar (3/4 cup)
- 10 grams vanilla sugar (1 tablespoon)
- 50 grams sour cream (1/4 cup)
- 150 ml vegetable oil (2/3 cup)
- Juice of half a lemon
- 250 grams flour (2 cups)
- 15 grams baking powder (1 tablespoon)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
-
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This is an important step to ensure that your cake bakes evenly.
-
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar until the mixture is fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or whisk by hand to achieve this texture.
-
Once fluffy, add the sour cream, vegetable oil, and the juice of half a lemon to the egg mixture. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
-
In another bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Mix until the batter is smooth and there are no lumps.
-
Prepare a baking pan by greasing it with butter and flour. This step will prevent the cake from sticking.
-
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it is evenly spread.
-
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the top of the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
Before serving, dust the cooled lemon cake with powdered sugar for a pretty presentation.
How to serve Lemon Cake
Lemon cake can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. You can serve it plain, or pair it with fresh whipped cream, berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, consider drizzling a lemon glaze over the top. To do this, mix powdered sugar with a little lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency. This addition will elevate the flavor and make it an even more enjoyable dessert.
How to store Lemon Cake
To store lemon cake, first ensure it is completely cooled. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week. If you want to keep it for an extended period, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container. When properly stored, lemon cake can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to make Lemon Cake
-
Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, use fresh lemons to extract the juice. It makes a significant difference compared to store-bought lemon juice.
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter combine more easily.
-
Do Not Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until you see no more flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
-
Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, always check your cake a few minutes before the indicated baking time.
-
Experiment with Flavors: You can add lemon zest for extra citrus flavor or substitute different types of oils like olive oil for a unique taste.
Variation (if any)
While this recipe is for a classic lemon cake, you can create variations to suit your taste. Consider adding poppy seeds to the batter for a nice crunch. You can also make a lemon blueberry cake by folding in fresh or frozen blueberries before baking. Creating a lemon cream cheese frosting instead of simply dusting with powdered sugar can also add a rich and creamy element to the dessert.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for an even lighter texture. However, if you want a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the lemon cake a day ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature.
3. What can I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
A sinking cake can happen if the batter is too wet, or if it is not baked long enough. Ensure proper measurements and check your oven temperature.
4. Can I add frosting to my lemon cake?
Yes, lemon cake pairs beautifully with frosting. A lemon buttercream or cream cheese frosting can complement the flavors perfectly.
5. Is there a dairy-free alternative for this lemon cake?
Yes, you can use non-dairy sour cream or a plant-based yogurt as a substitute for sour cream and use vegetable oil as your fat source.
Nutritional Information (per slice, assuming 12 servings)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 3g
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
Enjoy making and sharing your homemade lemon cake! With its bright flavor and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.