Experience the zesty and delightful flavors of this famous Italian lemon cake that has taken the world by storm. Renowned for its light, fluffy texture and vibrant lemon flavor, this cake is perfect for any occasion. It’s even said to be better than the beloved yogurt cake! Let’s explore how to make this exquisite lemon cake step-by-step.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Lemon Custard Filling:
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
- 50 grams (3 tablespoons) sugar
- 40 grams (3 tablespoons) cornstarch
- 300 ml (1 1/2 cups / 10.5 oz) milk
- Zest of one lemon
- Juice of one lemon
For the Cake Batter:
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 100 grams (6 tablespoons) sugar
- 120 ml (2/3 cup / 4.3 oz) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 220 grams (1 1/2 cups / 7.7 oz) all-purpose flour
- 15 grams (4 teaspoons / 0.5 oz) baking powder
Instructions
Prepare the Lemon Custard Filling:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 egg, a pinch of salt, 50 grams of sugar, and 40 grams of cornstarch. Whisk together until smooth.
- Add Milk: Gradually add 300 ml of milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add Lemon: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the mixture and continue to stir.
- Cook: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool: Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside to cool, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Beat Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 eggs with a pinch of salt until frothy.
- Add Sugar: Add 100 grams of sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is pale and thick.
- Add Oil and Vanilla: Gradually add 120 ml of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together 220 grams of all-purpose flour and 15 grams of baking powder.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Assemble the Cake:
- First Layer: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
- Add Custard: Spoon the cooled lemon custard filling over the batter, spreading it evenly but leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top Layer: Pour the remaining cake batter over the custard layer, spreading it carefully to cover the filling completely.
- Remove Air Bubbles: Gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Bake the Cake:
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve:
- Dust with Sugar: Once the cake is completely cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired.
- Slice and Serve: Slice and serve the cake with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy the delightful combination of fluffy cake and zesty lemon custard.
Cooking Tips
- Custard Consistency: Ensure the lemon custard filling is thick enough before removing it from the heat. It should hold its shape but still be spreadable.
- Gentle Folding: When mixing the cake batter, fold the dry ingredients gently to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and milk for a smoother batter and better rise.
Nutritional Benefits
- Lemon: High in vitamin C, lemons boost the immune system and have antioxidant properties.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins such as vitamin B12 and vitamin D.
- Milk: A good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Zesty Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest give this cake a vibrant, refreshing flavor.
- Light and Fluffy: The cake’s airy texture makes it a delightful treat that isn’t too heavy.
- Versatile: This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a special celebration.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare and budget-friendly.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it does not contain meat or fish.
- Nut-Free: The recipe does not contain nuts, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balanced Sweetness: The sweetness of the cake is balanced by the tangy lemon custard, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
- Moist Texture: The combination of oil and custard keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Double Lemon Impact: Using both lemon zest and juice intensifies the lemon flavor, making it more pronounced and delicious.
Conclusion
This famous Italian lemon cake is a showstopper that will impress anyone who tries it. With its light, fluffy texture and vibrant lemon flavor, it’s no wonder this cake is loved worldwide. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this lemon cake is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of making this delightful dessert and savor every bite of its zesty goodness. Buon appetito!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can use cake flour for an even lighter texture, or gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.
2. How do I store the cake? Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
3. Can I make the custard filling ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the custard filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Stir well before using to ensure a smooth consistency.
4. What can I use instead of vegetable oil? You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter or a mild-flavored oil like canola or sunflower oil.
5. Can I add other flavors to the cake? Yes, you can add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty flavor or a tablespoon of poppy seeds for added texture.
Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful Italian Lemon Cake!