There's something utterly captivating about the simplicity and zestiness of a lemon cake. Its vibrant, tangy flavor pairs harmoniously with the fluffy texture, creating a delightful and refreshing treat that appeals to all ages. Today, we'll dive into the art of baking a classic Easy Lemon Cake that's not only simple to make but also promises to be an indulgence in each bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To craft a perfect lemon cake, gather the following essentials:
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 200g caster sugar
- 175g unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 100ml buttermilk
- A pinch of salt
The Zesty Cake Steps
Baking this lemony delight involves a few simple steps:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a round cake tin with baking paper.
- Butter and Sugar Magic: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which should take around 5 minutes.
- Add the Eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs one by one, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. If the mixture begins to curdle, mix in a tablespoon of flour to smooth it out.
- Infuse with Lemon: Add the lemon zest and juice to the batter, blending well to distribute the lemony goodness.
- Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the batter. Fold gently to combine, alternating with buttermilk until you have a smooth batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared tin, smooth the top, and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Prepare: Once baked, let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Finishing Touches
A lemon cake is delightful on its own, but you can enhance its charm with these additions:
- Lemon Glaze: Mix 100g of icing sugar with 2-3 tbsp of lemon juice to make a simple glaze. Drizzle it over the cake.
- Lemon Buttercream: If you’re feeling indulgent, make a lemon buttercream by adding lemon juice to your standard buttercream recipe and spread it over the cake.
⚡️ Note: Overmixing can result in a denser cake. Fold the ingredients gently.
Storage Tips
Lemon cake can remain fresh and delicious if stored properly:
- Room Temperature: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If frosted, store in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Here’s a quick reference for storage:
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 Days |
| Refrigerator (frosted) | Up to 1 Week |
| Freezer | Up to 3 Months |
To sum up, this easy lemon cake recipe encapsulates the essence of simplicity and taste. With ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen and straightforward steps, it's a go-to dessert for any occasion or when you crave a homemade sweet. The delightful combination of zesty lemon with a light, airy texture ensures that this cake will not only be a refreshing treat but also a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
+
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant as fresh lemons. Using the zest from fresh lemons is highly recommended for the best taste.
How do I store this cake if it’s not eaten right away?
+
Unfrosted, you can store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container. If frosted or with perishable fillings, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze slices for longer storage.
Can I substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based alternative?
+
Yes, you can substitute butter with margarine for a similar texture. For plant-based alternatives, ensure they are solid at room temperature for best results, though the flavor might be slightly altered.
