Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of Italian home cooking. Its bright, zesty flavor and creamy texture make it a perfect treat for any occasion, from family gatherings to quiet afternoons with a good book. The cake is light but satisfying, with a hint of lemon that brightens your day. You can almost hear the laughter and warmth of an Italian kitchen as you enjoy a slice of this nostalgic dessert!
Gather Your Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake Ingredients
To make this scrumptious cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
How to Make the Lemon Custard Cake
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Italian dessert:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure everything is well combined.
- Mix in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and whole milk until the mixture is smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Pour the batter into the prepared pie dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before dusting with powdered sugar. Slice and serve your elegant lemon custard cake!
Serve & Enjoy This Lemon Custard Cake
This lovely lemon custard cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. You can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant touch and serve it on a pretty dessert plate. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience. A cup of herbal tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade makes for a lovely drink to serve alongside your cake. Perfect for any gathering, this treat will surely impress your guests and provide a burst of flavor that everyone will love!
Expert Tips for Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest contribute significantly to the cake’s flavor, so opt for real lemons instead of bottled juice for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can result in a denser texture.
- Add a Twist: Feel free to experiment! You can fold in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist or add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the cake for up to two months. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
I hope you give Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake a try! This cake is a lovely blend of simplicity and deliciousness that will brighten up any meal. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to share the joy of this delightful treat with those you love!