Lemon Zest Cake Recipe

Lemon Zest Cake is a delightful citrus-infused dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress. The vibrant, tangy flavor of fresh lemon zest paired with a buttery, tender cake creates a refreshing and satisfying dessert that is hard to resist. The addition of a lemon soak further enhances the moistness and flavor, making each bite a burst of lemony goodness.

Serve it as a dessert after a meal or enjoy it as a midday snack with a cup of tea—either way, this Lemon Zest Cake is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (90 grams) granulated sugar
• A pinch of salt
• Zest of 2 fresh lemons
• 6 oz (170 grams) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1⅓ cups (200 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons (15 grams) baking powder
• 2 tablespoons whole milk

For the Lemon Soak:

• 2.5 fluid ounces (75 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3.5 ounces (100 grams) powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter:

• Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C) and prepare a cake pan by greasing it with butter and lightly dusting with flour.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the cake’s light texture.
• Add the melted butter and lemon zest to the egg mixture. Make sure the butter is melted and slightly cooled before adding it to prevent curdling. The zest of two fresh lemons adds a vibrant citrus flavor that permeates the entire cake.
• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and aerate the flour, which results in a lighter cake. Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
• Finally, stir in the milk to achieve a smooth batter. The milk helps to loosen the batter and adds a bit of richness to the cake.

2. Bake the Cake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
• Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
• Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Lemon Soak:

• While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon soak by whisking together the freshly squeezed lemon juice and powdered sugar in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved, creating a tangy and sweet syrup.
• Once the cake is out of the oven and still warm, use a toothpick or skewer to poke small holes all over the top of the cake. This allows the lemon soak to penetrate the cake, infusing it with moisture and enhancing the lemon flavor.
• Slowly pour the lemon soak over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. This step is what makes the cake exceptionally moist and bursting with lemony flavor.

4. Finishing Touches:

• Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. As it cools, the lemon soak will continue to absorb into the cake, making it even more flavorful.
• For an extra touch, you can top the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of lemon glaze.

Serving Suggestions:

This Lemon Zest Cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a splash of color and added freshness, garnish with a few fresh berries or an additional sprinkle of lemon zest. This cake is perfect for serving at brunch, afternoon tea, or as a light dessert after a hearty meal.

Recipe Tips:

• Butter Temperature: When incorporating melted butter into the batter, ensure it has cooled slightly. This prevents the eggs from cooking and keeps the batter smooth.
• Extra Lemon Flavor: For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding a few drops of lemon extract to the batter.
• Lemon Soak: If you prefer a sweeter soak, increase the amount of powdered sugar slightly. Conversely, if you like your cake more tart, reduce the sugar or add a bit more lemon juice.

Health Benefits:

Lemons are packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, which can help boost your immune system and promote healthy skin. The eggs in this cake add protein, contributing to the structure and richness of the cake. While this is a treat, it’s nice to know there are some nutritional benefits hidden within this delicious dessert.

Storage:

This Lemon Zest Cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator, where it will last up to five days. If you’d like to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, allow the cake to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

The Lemon Zest Cake is a perfect blend of tartness and sweetness. The lemon soak ensures that the cake stays moist and tender, while the lemon zest infuses the cake with a vibrant citrus flavor. It’s a simple recipe made with basic ingredients, but the results are anything but ordinary. Whether you’re a lemon lover or just looking for a refreshing dessert, this cake is sure to please. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Conclusion:

Lemon Zest Cake is a refreshing and delightful dessert that will brighten any day. The buttery, tender cake combined with the zesty lemon soak creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a party, bringing it to a potluck, or simply enjoying it with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to impress.

With its moist texture and vibrant flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Enjoy the simplicity of the ingredients and the complexity of the flavors in every bite of this delicious Lemon Zest Cake.

Source of the picture : Barbara O’Neill Lectures

Author : Marie-claude