Description
Lemon Custard Cake is a delightful, zesty dessert featuring a tender cake layer on top with a luscious, custard-like bottom. This easy-to-make recipe combines fresh lemon zest and juice with vanilla and creamy butter, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a cozy gathering or a refreshing treat, this cake is light, flavorful, and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round baking dish or pie dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to infuse the batter with bright, citrusy flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Next, pour in the milk and stir gently until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Pour Batter into Dish: Pour the runny batter into the prepared baking dish carefully; the consistency is normal and vital for creating the custard effect.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. During baking, the cake will form a custard-like layer at the bottom, giving it its unique texture.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. If desired, dust the top with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
- Use fresh lemons for zest and juice to maximize flavor.
- The batter will be runny; this is normal and crucial for the custard base to form.
- Check the cake starting at 45 minutes to avoid over-baking, which could dry out the custard layer.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest.
- Powdered sugar is optional but adds a lovely finish and a touch of sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
