Discover the charm of French baking with this Moelleux au Citron recipe, a supremely moist and tender cake that embodies the essence of lemon in every bite. Made with simple, quality ingredients, this cake features a rich almond base, infused with fresh organic lemon, creating a delightful contrast between its dense texture and the bright, citrusy notes. This dessert is not only a joy to make but also a visually appealing addition to any table, dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
Why You'll Love This:
The Moelleux au Citron is perfect for those who appreciate desserts that are not overly sweet yet bursting with fresh flavors. The combination of almonds and lemon gives it a unique texture and a sophisticated taste that differs from more traditional cakes. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pastry enthusiasts. This cake is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in baking, focusing on flavor and texture without the need for elaborate decoration.
Perfect Occasion:
This lemon cake is ideal for a variety of occasions. Serve it at afternoon tea, a brunch gathering, or as a light dessert after a family dinner. It's particularly suitable for spring and summer events when the zestiness of the lemon pairs wonderfully with the season. This cake also makes for a thoughtful homemade gift or a special treat to bring along to a potluck.
Decoration Tips:
To beautifully present the Moelleux au Citron, dust it generously with powdered sugar just before serving. Add a few lemon zest curls or thinly sliced lemon rounds atop for a fresh and appealing look. Edible flowers, such as violets or marigolds, can also be placed around the cake for a vibrant, springtime presentation. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of lemon sorbet for an extra touch of indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 100 g unsalted butter
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 100 g ground blanched almonds
- 50 g all-purpose flour
- Zest and juice of 1 organic lemon
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 19 cm cake pan with butter and dust it lightly with flour.
- Melt the Butter:
- Melt the butter gently in a saucepan over low heat, then set aside to cool.
- Mix Eggs and Sugar:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the sugar and eggs together until they turn pale and fluffy.
- Combine Butter and Egg Mixture:
- Gradually mix the cooled melted butter into the egg and sugar mixture, ensuring it blends smoothly.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, combine the ground almonds, flour, and lemon zest.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing continuously until well incorporated.
- Add Lemon Juice:
- Squeeze in the juice of the lemon and stir the batter until smooth.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cake is golden and set yet still moist inside.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool slightly in the pan, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy this delightful French classic either warm or at room temperature, and let the vibrant lemon aroma captivate your senses!