Tangy Lemon Cake

by

Introduction:
Indulge in the bright and refreshing flavors of summer with this Tangy Lemon Cake. Bursting with zesty lemon goodness, this cake is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy. Each bite is a delightful symphony of moist cake infused with fresh lemon flavor, topped with a tangy lemon glaze that adds an extra burst of citrusy goodness. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a slice of sunshine, this Tangy Lemon Cake is sure to brighten your day.

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Optional Additions:

  • Lemon slices or twists for garnish
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the Lemon Cake Batter:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the lemon zest and lemon juice until well combined.
  • Mix in the buttermilk, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

3. Bake the Cake:

  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Make the Lemon Glaze:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice if needed.

5. Glaze the Cake:

  • Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top using a spoon or a pastry brush.
  • Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

6. Serve and Garnish:

  • Slice the Tangy Lemon Cake and serve it on plates.
  • Garnish each slice with lemon slices or twists and fresh mint leaves for a decorative touch.

7. Store Any Leftovers:

  • Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips for Success:

  • For extra lemon flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon extract to the cake batter.
  • Make sure to zest your lemons before juicing them for the most efficient use of your ingredients.
  • If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Nutritional Estimate:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Calories: Approximately 250-300 per slice (based on 12 slices)
  • Total Fat: Approximately 10-12g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 6-7g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 50-60mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 150-200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
  • Sugars: Approximately 20-25g
  • Protein: Approximately 4-5g

Recommendation:
Tangy Lemon Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from brunches to picnics to afternoon tea. Its bright and citrusy flavor profile makes it a refreshing treat that’s especially welcome during the warmer months. Serve it as a standalone dessert or alongside a cup of hot tea for a comforting and satisfying indulgence. Enjoy the tangy goodness of this Lemon Cake and let it brighten your day with every bite!

Leave a Comment