Lemon Sponge Cake Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to this delicious lemon sponge cake recipe! If you’re a fan of light and fluffy cakes with a refreshing tangy flavor, then this recipe is perfect for you. This lemon sponge cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether you want to impress your guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For this lemon sponge cake recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

– 1 tablespoon baking powder

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

– 4 large eggs

– 1 cup whole milk

– 2 tablespoons lemon zest

– ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Steps

Follow these steps to make the perfect lemon sponge cake:

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the butter and sugar

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the eggs

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 5: Alternate the dry ingredients and milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.

Step 6: Add the lemon zest and juice

Stir in the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice until well combined.

Step 7: Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve slices of the lemon sponge cake on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Variations

There are several variations you can try with this lemon sponge cake recipe:

– Add a lemon glaze on top for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

– Fill the cake with lemon curd or fresh berries for a delightful surprise in every bite.

– Serve the cake with a scoop of lemon sorbet for a refreshing summer dessert.

Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your lemon sponge cake turns out perfect:

– Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

– Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.

– Zest the lemons before juicing them to make the process easier.

– If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the amount of sugar in the recipe.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have now learned how to make a delicious lemon sponge cake. This recipe is perfect for any lemon lover and will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy this light and tangy cake as a delightful dessert or a special treat. Happy baking!

FAQs

What can I use instead of lemon zest?

If you don’t have any lemons on hand, you can substitute lemon zest with lemon extract. Use about half a teaspoon of lemon extract for every tablespoon of zest required in the recipe.

Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, omit the baking powder and salt as self-rising flour already contains these ingredients.

How long will the lemon sponge cake stay fresh?

If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the lemon sponge cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week.