Delicious Lemon Cake, with its bright and uplifting flavors, is one of those desserts that can bring a smile to anyone’s face. This cake, with its zesty lemon essence, perfect sweetness, and fluffy texture, makes it a wonderful treat for any occasion—be it a birthday, a simple gathering, or an afternoon tea. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful cake.
What You’ll Need for Delicious Lemon Cake
To get started, gather these fresh ingredients. You’ll find that everything is easy to find and simple to prepare!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (300g)
- 1 tbsp baking powder (15g)
- ½ tsp salt (2g)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature (115g)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (120ml, from about 2 lemons)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5ml)
How to Make Delicious Lemon Cake
Follow these steps to create your cake masterpiece!
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Preheat the Oven: First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans with butter and a little flour to prevent sticking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
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Incorporate Eggs and Flavors: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is nicely blended.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix!
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Pour and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is important before frosting or decorating!
How to Serve Delicious Lemon Cake
When it comes to serving your lovely Lemon Cake, consider these delightful ideas:
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Classic Frosting: A light lemon buttercream or cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the fresh flavors of the cake. Simply spread a generous layer on top and between the two layers if you’re making a layered cake.
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Simple Dusting: For a lighter option, dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
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Serve with Berries: Fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, make a vibrant and tasty addition to the plate.
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Accompany with Tea: This cake is perfect with a cup of herbal tea or iced lemonade on a sunny afternoon.
Recipe Tips & Variations
Here are some handy tips and creative twists:
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Make It Lemonier: If you love a strong lemon flavor, add another tablespoon of lemon zest or a bit more lemon juice to the batter.
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Add Poppy Seeds: For a lemon poppy seed variation, stir in about 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for added texture.
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Store Properly: To keep your cake moist, store it in an airtight container. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap and then foil for extra protection.
Delicious Lemon Cake FAQs
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: While fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, bottled juice can work in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor might not be as bright.
Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: The toothpick test is your best friend! Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it pulls out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready.
Q: Can I freeze Lemon Cake?
A: Definitely! You can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store them for up to 3 months.
Enjoying a slice of this delightful Lemon Cake is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. It’s refreshing, sweet, and perfect for any celebration or just because! Try baking it today and share the joy with your friends and family!