Soft and Fluffy Lemon Cake: A Zesty Delight 🍰🍋
This lemon cake is the perfect blend of lightness and refreshing citrus flavor, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, it’s simply irresistible. Let’s bake a slice of sunshine! ✨🍋
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder 🥄
- ½ tsp salt 🧂
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1 cup granulated sugar 🍬
- 2 large eggs 🥚🥚
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest 🍋
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 🍋
- ½ cup milk 🥛
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar 🍬
- 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice 🍋
Instructions
1. Prepare the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. 🔥
2. Mix the dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. 🌾🥄
3. Cream the butter and sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and juice. 🍋🧈
4. Combine the mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. 🥄
5. Bake the cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely. 🍰⏲️
6. Make the lemon glaze:
While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake. For an extra touch, sprinkle with additional lemon zest. ✨🍋
Tips for a Perfect Lemon Cake
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed juice and zest make all the difference in flavor.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Cake is too dense:
- Be sure to measure your flour correctly (spoon and level method) and avoid overmixing the batter.
2. Glaze is too runny or thick:
- Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or more lemon juice to thin it out.
3. Cake sticks to the pan:
- Always grease and flour the pan thoroughly, or line the bottom with parchment paper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a loaf pan instead of a round pan?
Yes! A loaf pan works perfectly for this recipe, but you may need to adjust the baking time by adding 5-10 minutes.
How do I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Time & Servings
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Serves: 8 slices
- Calories: ~260 kcal per slice
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