Description
This Lemon Custard Cake is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert featuring a light, spongy lemon topping with a creamy custard layer beneath. Perfectly balanced with fresh lemon zest and juice, it’s a refreshing treat that can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture.
- Add Egg Yolks and Lemon: Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, then mix in the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice, infusing the batter with bright citrus flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Stir in the all-purpose flour and salt just until combined, ensuring not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Add Milk: Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the batter is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, which will help the cake rise and become airy.
- Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the lemon batter, taking care to keep the mixture light and airy.
- Fill Baking Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and set but the center still jiggles slightly, indicating the custard layer is perfectly creamy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for at least 20 minutes to set. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Optionally, serve with fresh berries or whipped cream for added brightness and flavor.
Notes
- For extra brightness, serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
- This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once the flour is added to maintain a tender texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
