This lemon cake is a perfect example of how a simple recipe can produce an extraordinary dessert. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a light and fluffy cake that melts in your mouth, bursting with fresh lemon flavor. The combination of lemon juice and zest gives it a vibrant citrus taste, balanced perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.
Ideal for any occasion, this lemon cake is easy to make and sure to impress. The gentle warmth of milk and butter incorporated into the batter adds to its moist and tender texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert to serve after dinner or a delightful treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this lemon cake is the perfect choice. Dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch and savor every bite of this delightful creation.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 150 grams of sugar (3/4 cup)
- 10 grams vanilla sugar (1.5 teaspoons)
- 50 grams of sour cream (2 heaped tablespoons)
- 150 ml vegetable oil (3/4 cup)
- Juice of half a lemon
- 250 grams of flour (1.5 cups + 1 tablespoon)
- 15 grams baking powder (2 teaspoons)
- Zest of one lemon
- 200 ml milk (1 glass)
- 25 grams butter (1.5 tablespoons)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the sour cream, vegetable oil, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together and gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently warm the milk and butter in a small saucepan until the butter melts. Stir this into the cake batter along with the lemon zest.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
This lemon cake not only delights your taste buds but also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Rich in vitamin C, lemons boost your immune system, improve skin quality, and aid digestion.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients such as vitamins B2, B12, D, and E. They also help in binding the ingredients together, giving the cake its structure.
- Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake while also contributing to its creamy texture.
- Vegetable Oil: A healthier fat option, contributing to the cake’s moistness and tenderness.
Customizations:
This versatile lemon cake recipe can be easily customized to suit different preferences and dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version.
- Dairy-Free: Replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based milk and butter alternative.
- Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon extract or a splash of vanilla extract for an extra burst of flavor.
- Berry Addition: Incorporate fresh or frozen berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions:
This lemon cake can be served in various delightful ways:
- Plain: Enjoy it on its own, dusted with powdered sugar.
- With Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Berry Compote: Serve with a side of homemade berry compote for a refreshing contrast.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top for added sweetness and lemony flavor.
Storage Tips:
To keep your lemon cake fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered tightly, for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: The lemon cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Why This Lemon Cake Stands Out:
This lemon cake is a standout recipe for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this cake is quick and straightforward to make, perfect for busy schedules.
- Moist and Fluffy Texture: The combination of sour cream, vegetable oil, and milk creates a wonderfully moist and fluffy cake that melts in your mouth.
- Bright Lemon Flavor: The use of both lemon juice and zest ensures a bright, citrusy flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Versatility: This cake is suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to more formal gatherings. It can be dressed up or enjoyed simply as it is.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
This lemon cake is ideal for numerous occasions, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection:
- Birthdays and Celebrations: Its light and refreshing flavor makes it a great choice for celebrations.
- Afternoon Tea: Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Dessert: Serve it as a dessert after a meal, impressing your guests with its melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Gifting: Wrap it up beautifully and give it as a homemade gift to friends and family.
Conclusion:
Incorporating this lemon cake into your baking repertoire will surely bring joy to your kitchen. Its simple ingredients and straightforward method make it accessible to both novice and experienced bakers. The delightful combination of tangy lemon and sweet, moist cake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and experience the magic of this melt-in-your-mouth lemon cake!