Lemon Zest Cake Recipe
The Lemon Zest Cake is a citrus-infused delight that will become a staple in your dessert repertoire. With its bright and zesty flavor, this cake is perfect for any celebration or casual gathering. The combination of the buttery cake and the tangy lemon soak creates a moist and flavorful treat that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert, an afternoon snack, or a special treat for guests, this cake is sure to impress.
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Ingredients for the Cake:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Sugar | 90 grams (3.5 ounces, 1/2 cup) |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Lemon zest | From 2 fresh lemons |
| Melted butter | 170 grams (8 tablespoons, 6 oz) |
| All-purpose flour | 200 grams (7 ounces, 1 cup + 1/3 cup) |
| Baking powder | 15 grams (3 teaspoons) |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
Ingredients for the Lemon Soak:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lemon juice | 75 milliliters (2.5 fluid ounces) |
| Powdered sugar | 100 grams (3.5 ounces) |
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Lemon Zest Cake
Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Whisk the eggs in a large mixing bowl with the sugar and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which helps the cake rise.
- Incorporate the lemon zest from two fresh lemons and the melted butter into the egg mixture. Make sure the butter is slightly cooled before adding it to prevent curdling.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together to remove any lumps, then gently fold this into the egg mixture. The batter should be smooth and well-combined.
- Add the milk and stir until the batter is smooth. This will help achieve a consistent texture throughout the cake.
- Prepare the cake pan by buttering and flouring it thoroughly to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Baking the Cake
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes. You’ll know the cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan.
Preparing the Lemon Soak
- While the cake is baking, mix the lemon juice with the powdered sugar until fully dissolved. This lemon soak will infuse the cake with additional moisture and a burst of citrus flavor.
- Poke small holes all over the surface of the cake using a toothpick or skewer. This will allow the lemon soak to penetrate the cake, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Pour the lemon soak evenly over the warm cake. Allow the cake to absorb the soak fully before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storing the Lemon Zest Cake
Serving Suggestions:
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- Serve the Lemon Zest Cake with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of freshly whipped cream to complement the tangy citrus flavors.
- For a burst of color and added freshness, garnish with fresh berries or additional lemon zest.
Storage Tips:
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