Get ready to transform your baking game with this irresistible Luscious Lemon Snacking Cake that will make your taste buds dance with pure citrusy delight! Imagine a moist, tender cake bursting with bright lemon flavor, so easy to make that even novice bakers can create a showstopping dessert in under an hour. Whether you're craving a mid-afternoon treat or need a crowd-pleasing dessert that requires minimal effort, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined and free of lumps.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
- Incorporate the lemon zest, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and lemon juice. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift the cake out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Slice into squares and serve at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake texture.
- Zest Matters: Use fresh lemon zest for the most vibrant flavor. Avoid the white pith, which can be bitter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and light.
- Check for Doneness: A toothpick with a few moist crumbs is perfect - it means your cake will be wonderfully soft.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the cake cool completely before cutting to maintain its delicate structure.
- Storage Tip: For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container at room temperature, and it'll stay delicious for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
