🍋 Lemon Custard Cake – A Deliciously Zesty Treat
Description
Lemon Custard Cake is a light, refreshing dessert that beautifully balances tangy lemon flavor with a creamy, custard-like texture. This cake magically separates into two delightful layers while baking: a soft sponge cake on top and a rich, silky lemon custard on the bottom. It’s the perfect treat for lemon lovers who enjoy a bright, zesty dessert that isn’t overly heavy. Ideal for spring gatherings, tea parties, or simply as a sweet ending to your meal.
Ingredients For Lemon Custard Cake – A Deliciously Zesty Treat
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½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
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1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
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4 large eggs, separated
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
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1 ½ cups (360ml) whole milk, lukewarm
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Zest of 2 lemons
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½ cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice
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Pinch of salt
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Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
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Prep the oven & pan: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment.
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Whip egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
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Mix yolk batter: In another bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. Add melted butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well.
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Add flour & milk: Gently whisk in flour, then slowly add warm milk until smooth. Batter will be thin.
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Fold egg whites: Carefully fold egg whites into batter in 3 additions. Some lumps of egg white are fine—don’t overmix.
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Bake: Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 45–55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cake jiggles slightly in the center.
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Cool & serve: Let cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Cut into squares or scoop portions for a rustic look.
📝 Notes
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Batter will be runny—this is normal for custard-style cakes.
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For a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra tablespoon of zest.
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Cake is best served chilled after resting in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
💡 Tips
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Use fresh lemons, not bottled juice, for best flavor.
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Don’t overmix when folding egg whites—air is what creates the cake layer.
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Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🍽 Servings
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Makes 9 square servings (8×8 pan)
🔢 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 210
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Carbs: 28g
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 9g
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Fiber: 0.5g
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Sugar: 21g
🌟 Benefits
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Rich in vitamin C from fresh lemons.
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Lighter than heavy cream-based desserts.
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Satisfies sweet cravings while offering a refreshing citrus kick.
❓ Q&A for Lemon Custard Cake
Q1: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
Q2: Can I use other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Try lime, orange, or grapefruit for a twist.
Q3: Why is my cake too runny?
It may be underbaked—give it 5–10 more minutes, but don’t overbake or the custard layer will dry out.
Q4: How do I serve it?
Serve chilled with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or just a dusting of powdered sugar.
Q5: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling overnight as the flavors meld.