Description
This delightful Lemon Custard Cake combines a tender, creamy custard with bright, zesty lemon flavor. Perfectly baked to set a smooth texture with a light golden top, this dessert is refreshing and elegant, ideal for special occasions or a bright finish to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare it for the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and salt until combined evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg yolks, milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Whip Egg Whites: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar (if using) on high speed until stiff peaks form to ensure a light and airy texture.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the lemon mixture carefully to retain the airiness. The batter may look slightly lumpy, which is normal.
- Bake: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is mostly set but may still jiggle slightly.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the custard fully set and develop its texture.
- Serve: Once chilled, slice the cake and optionally dust with powdered sugar or serve with fresh whipped cream to enhance the dessert.
Notes
- Be sure to not overmix when folding in egg whites to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best bright flavor.
- Allow ample cooling and chilling time to achieve the perfect custard consistency.
- The cream of tartar helps stabilize the egg whites but is optional.
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be garnished with fresh berries for added appeal.
