Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). This lower temperature allows the cake to rise gently, resulting in a light texture.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the 4 egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for adding volume to your dough.
- Gradually add 120 g of sugar while continuing to beat the mixture. This helps to stabilize the egg whites and maintain their structure.
- Add the 4 egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Gently fold in 120 g of flour and 4 g of baking powder. Be careful not to overmix to keep the batter airy.
- Add 1 teaspoon of lemon peel, 30 ml of water, and 40 ml of lemon juice, mixing until just combined. The lemon juice and zest will enhance the flavor of the dough.
- Pour the batter into a 40x29 cm baking tray lined with baking paper. Spread it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.
- Prepare the Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine 300 g of soft cream cheese and 75 g of powdered sugar. Make sure the cream cheese is soft for easy mixing.
- Beat until smooth and creamy. This will be the luscious layer that complements the lemon filling.
- Refrigerate the cream mixture until ready to use, allowing it to firm up slightly.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: In a saucepan, whisk together 3 eggs, 190 g of sugar, 1 teaspoon of lemon peel, and 10 g of cornstarch. This mixture will create a rich, tangy filling.
- Gradually add 130 ml of lemon juice while whisking continuously to avoid curdling the eggs.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil and thickens. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly, then refrigerate until set.
- Assemble the Dessert: Once the dough has cooled completely, spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the top. This layer should be smooth and inviting.
- Pour the lemon filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it gently to create an even surface.
- Refrigerate the assembled dessert until set, which should take at least 1-2 hours.
- Serve: Once set, cut the dessert into squares or slices. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
