Experience the perfect blend of tangy and sweet with this homemade Lemon Custard Cake. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a refreshing slice of heaven that brings the bright, sun-kissed flavor of lemon to a rich, creamy custard texture. Ideal for an afternoon tea, a celebratory brunch, or as a satisfying finale to a family dinner, this lemon custard cake promises to delight your palate with its vibrant flavors and delicate texture.
Ingredients
- 4 eggs, separated
- 1 tablespoon water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Prep and Preheat:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease an 8-inch cake pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Yolk Mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with water until smooth. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until the mixture is fluffy and pale.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and melted butter, mixing until well incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Sift the flour into the yolk mixture. Stir until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture is homogeneous.
- Whip Egg Whites:
- In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until they form stiff peaks. This will help create the light, airy texture characteristic of custard cakes.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the lemon mixture, using a wide spatula to make slow, deliberate folds. This technique ensures that the air is not knocked out of the egg whites, which is crucial for the cake’s texture.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Prep Time and Nutritional Information
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per serving
Tips
- Ingredient Temperature: For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This improves the mixing process and helps achieve a smoother, more even batter.
- Folding Technique: Be gentle when folding the egg whites into the batter. Use a spatula to cut through the mixture and fold until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance this cake by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of lemon syrup. These additions complement the zesty flavor of the lemon and add a lovely richness.
This Lemon Custard Cake is a must-try for anyone who loves the fresh, invigorating taste of lemon combined with the luxurious texture of a custard. It’s a sophisticated treat that’s sure to impress guests and satisfy those citrus cravings. Enjoy this delightful dessert that balances zesty freshness with creamy sweetness in every bite.