Lemon Custard Cake – A Delightfully Light and Creamy Dessert

There’s something truly magical about a dessert that combines the airy texture of a sponge cake with the smooth, velvety richness of custard. Lemon Custard Cake is exactly that—a beautifully layered treat where one batter transforms into two distinct textures as it bakes. The top emerges as a soft, fluffy cake, while the bottom sets into a luscious lemon custard.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

This cake is perfect for spring and summer, when the bright citrus flavors feel refreshing and light. It’s the kind of dessert that brings a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of homemade puddings and simple, heartwarming bakes. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a brunch with friends, or as a midweek treat, this cake is bound to impress. Plus, its delicate balance of tangy and sweet makes it utterly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and creamy: The dual textures make this cake a unique and delightful experience in every bite.
• Bright and refreshing: The zesty lemon flavor adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• Easy to make: No complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a summer afternoon or a cozy winter dessert, this cake fits the bill.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large eggs, separated
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 ¾ cups milk, lukewarm
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

How to Make Lemon Custard Cake

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Beat the Egg Yolks and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thick. This helps incorporate air, which will contribute to the cake’s light texture.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Stir in the vanilla extract, melted butter, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour to the mixture, whisking until fully combined. The batter will be slightly thick at this stage.

Step 5: Add the Milk

Slowly pour in the lukewarm milk, whisking continuously. The batter will become very thin, almost like pancake batter. Don’t worry—this is exactly what creates the custard layer!

Step 6: Beat the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This means the egg whites should hold their shape when you lift the beaters.

Step 7: Fold in the Egg Whites

Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter. Do this in batches, using a spatula to incorporate them without deflating the air. The batter will still look loose, but that’s what gives the cake its magical layers!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. The cake will have a slight jiggle in the center due to the custard layer underneath.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool completely before slicing. For best results, refrigerate for an hour to allow the custard layer to set further. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest will give the best flavor—bottled juice doesn’t compare!
• Don’t skip the egg white step: Beating and folding in the egg whites is what gives the cake its airy top layer.
• Gentle folding is key: Overmixing the egg whites will deflate them, so use light, sweeping motions.
• Bake until golden but jiggly: The top should be firm and golden brown, but the center should still have a slight wobble.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerating the cake for an hour makes the custard layer more pronounced and easier to slice.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: European-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• This cake is best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
• If you want a stronger lemon flavor, add a little extra zest.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Sugar: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 60mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does the cake separate into layers?

The magic of this cake comes from the thin batter and the way it bakes. The egg whites create a fluffy sponge on top, while the liquidy batter settles into a custard layer beneath.

2. Can I use a different citrus fruit?

Yes! While lemon gives it that classic tang, you can try lime or orange for a twist.

3. What’s the best way to store this cake?

Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The custard layer will firm up as it chills.

4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It actually tastes even better after resting for a few hours in the fridge.

5. Why is my cake too runny?

If the custard layer is too soft, it may need a bit more baking time. Check if the top is golden and the middle has a slight jiggle. If it’s too liquidy, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Lemon Custard Cake fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While the texture may change slightly, you can freeze slices for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, so no need to reheat!

Related Recipes

If you loved this Lemon Custard Cake, you might also enjoy:

• Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

• Fluffy Baked German Pancake

Conclusion

Lemon Custard Cake is a dessert that surprises and delights with its airy top and silky custard base. With its bright lemon flavor and delicate sweetness, it’s the perfect treat for any time of year. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cake is a must-try. Give it a go, and let the magic of simple ingredients transform into something truly special!

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