Quick Lemon Cake in Just 50 Minutes: Perfect Citrusy Treat

Ingredients

Cake

1/3 pound unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1/2 tablespoon vanilla sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
Zest of 1 lemon
Pinch of salt
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Glaze

2 tablespoons lemon juice
3/4 cup powdered sugar

Equipment

Electric Mixer
A good quality mixer will make your life easier by combining ingredients quickly and evenly. Make sure to turn off and scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is well mixed.
Mixing Bowls
You'll need a couple of different bowls to separate the wet and dry ingredients. Stainless steel or glass bowls work best for easy mixing and cleanup.
Sifter
Using a sifter will help you avoid lumps in your batter, making your cake extra smooth and fluffy.
Cake Pan
A well-greased cake pan will help your cake come out flawlessly. You can use parchment paper for an even easier release.

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Batter

Melt the butter until soft and cream it together with the granulated and vanilla sugars using an electric mixer for about 2 minutes.

Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, and salt, then mix until the texture is smooth and uniform.

Step 2

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and cornstarch.

Gradually sift the dry mixture into the egg mixture, mixing well each time to avoid lumps.

Step 3

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a prepared cake pan.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 40-50 minutes. The baking time may vary based on pan size; ensure the cake is done by inserting a toothpick which should come out clean.

Step 4

Add the Glaze

Allow the cake to cool before removing it from the pan.

Mix lemon juice with powdered sugar to make a glaze and pour it over the cooled cake.

Garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.

Servings

Mornings, afternoons, or shared over leisurely talks, this versatile lemon cake fits any part of your day like a cozy sweater. 🧁 **✨ Morning Delight ✨**: Pair a slice with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. The zesty lemon flavor is especially refreshing in the morning. **✨ Lunchtime Treat ✨**: Serve alongside a light salad for a delightful contrast. The blend of sweet and tangy will complement your meal beautifully. **✨ Evening Indulgence ✨**: Fancy up your dessert by adding a side of fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream. 🍓 The added flavors will elevate your cake to gourmet status. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep the cake moist and flavorful. To reheat, just pop a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds.

Variations

This versatile recipe is also adaptable if you have special dietary needs. 🌱✨ **🌟 Gluten-Free Version 🌟**: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a mix of gluten-free flour and almond flour. This keeps the cake moist while making it celiac-friendly. **🌟 Vegan Version 🌟**: Replace the unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. For the glaze, you can use a mix of powdered sugar and water or a plant-based milk. Both versions still promise the same burst of lemony goodness! 🍋✨

Faq

How do I know if my cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is done.
Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar for the glaze?
Regular sugar won't dissolve as smoothly and could lead to a grainy texture. Stick with powdered sugar for the best results.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and add the glaze just before serving. Store the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
What if my batter is lumpy?
Try sifting your dry ingredients before mixing and make sure to mix gradually. If lumps persist, use a whisk or a spatula to smooth them out.
Can I add other flavors to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges or limes. You could also add a teaspoon of poppy seeds for additional texture.
What's the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate the cake if you'd like it to last a bit longer.