Pão-de-Ló Alfeizerão is a traditional Portuguese sponge cake known for its creamy, custard-like center and light, airy texture. This classic dessert is especially popular during festive seasons, but its divine flavor and delicate consistency make it a treat to enjoy year-round. Simple yet luxurious, this cake brings a touch of Portuguese heritage to your table, promising to be a delightful addition to any celebration.
Why You’ll Love This:
This cake is beloved for its unique texture, featuring a creamy, slightly undercooked center surrounded by a light and fluffy sponge. The combination of eggs, sugar, and flour, enhanced by a hint of lemon zest, creates a rich and satisfying flavor that is both traditional and comforting. Pão-de-Ló Alfeizerão is straightforward to make and offers a delightful contrast between its golden exterior and soft interior, making it a favorite for those who appreciate the finer details of classic desserts.
Perfect Occasion:
Pão-de-Ló Alfeizerão is perfect for festive occasions such as Easter, Christmas, or any family gathering where a special dessert is desired. Its elegant appearance and exquisite taste make it suitable for formal dinners, holiday celebrations, or as a luxurious treat for a Sunday afternoon. This cake is also a fantastic choice for showcasing Portuguese culinary traditions to friends and loved ones.
Decoration Tips:
For a beautiful presentation, lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving. You can also garnish with a few lemon zest curls to highlight the citrus flavor. Serving the cake on a decorative platter or cake stand can enhance its elegant appearance, making it the centerpiece of your dessert table.
Ingredients:
- 8 egg yolks
- 4 whole eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 75 g self-rising flour
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Line a 24 cm round cake pan with parchment paper and grease it with butter.
- In a mixer, beat the whole eggs, egg yolks, lemon zest (if using), and sugar until the mixture is pale and creamy, about 15 minutes.
- Sift the flour and gently fold it into the egg mixture without overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your preference for the consistency of the center.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan.
Enjoy this exquisite Pão-de-Ló Alfeizerão, a creamy and delightful classic that brings a touch of Portuguese tradition to your celebrations!
