Description
This Lemon Custard Cake is a soft, creamy, and zesty dessert that magically separates into two layers—fluffy sponge on top and velvety custard below. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a clean mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract until pale and slightly thickened. Stir in the melted butter and lemon zest.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Slowly add the milk and lemon juice, whisking continuously until smooth.
- Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold in the beaten egg whites using a spatula, ensuring the batter remains light and airy.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly firm.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
- Variations: Add shredded coconut, fresh berries, or substitute with orange zest for a different flavor.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or enjoy chilled.
- Baking Dish Alternative: Use a 9-inch round pan or ramekins, adjusting the baking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- cooling time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Lemon custard cake, citrus dessert, layered custard cake, easy lemon cake, creamy lemon dessert