Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Preheat the Oven
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or line with parchment paper for easy removal).
Zest and Juice the Lemons: Before starting the batter, zest and juice the lemons so they’re ready to go. You’ll need the zest for the cake and the juice for both the cake and the optional glaze.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step helps create the cake’s airy texture.
Add Eggs and Lemon Zest: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk and lemon juice. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this is key to achieving a fluffy cake.
Step 5: Bake
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Cool: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Lemon Glaze (Optional)
Prepare the Glaze: While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest to create a smooth, pourable glaze.
Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful finish. For a more subtle glaze, you can brush it on in a thin layer.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into slices and serve it as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries for an extra touch.
Tips for the Perfect Fluffy Lemon Cake
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting. This ensures even mixing and contributes to the cake’s fluffy texture.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the fluffiest result.
Glaze Variation: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of powdered sugar and increase the lemon juice for a tangier finish.
Conclusion
This Fluffy Lemon Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for lemon lovers. Its light, airy texture and bright citrus flavor make it an ideal cake for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or just craving something sweet. Simple yet elegant, this lemon cake is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy every soft, citrus-filled bite!
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