This moist and zesty lemon cake is packed with fresh citrus flavor, delivering a perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite. The combination of lemon juice and zest creates a bright and refreshing taste, while the fluffy, airy texture makes it an irresistible treat. This cake is perfect for those who enjoy a light yet flavorful dessert. You can also incorporate tart fruits like cherries for an added burst of flavor, making this cake versatile and easy to customize. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and extra lemon zest, this cake is a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this lemon cake for its bright citrus flavor and soft, fluffy texture. The tangy lemon juice and zest make it a refreshing and light dessert that isn’t too sweet, ideal for those who love fruity cakes. The recipe is easy to follow, using simple ingredients, yet it delivers a bakery-quality result. Whether you add cherries or enjoy it as a pure lemon cake, its refreshing taste and moist crumb will keep you coming back for more. It’s a versatile cake that works well for any gathering or as an everyday treat.
Perfect Occasion:
This lemon cake is perfect for any casual or special occasion. It’s great for family gatherings, weekend brunches, or as a light dessert to serve after dinner. Its fresh and zesty flavor makes it ideal for warm days when you want something that’s not too heavy. The cake is also a fantastic choice for picnics, afternoon tea, or any event where you want a homemade, refreshing dessert. It’s a versatile cake that can be adapted to include fruits like cherries, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Decoration Tips:
For a simple and elegant finish, dust the cake with powdered sugar once it has cooled completely. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra lemon zest over the top to enhance the citrusy aroma and add a pop of color. If you’re using cherries or other fruits, add a few extra pieces on top before baking for a beautiful visual contrast. For an even more indulgent touch, serve each slice with a drizzle of lemon glaze or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup minus 2 fingers of granulated sugar
- ½ cup milk (optional: add 1 tablespoon yogurt and top with milk)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Optional: a few cherries or other fruits
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and creamy. Make sure to beat the mixture well to incorporate air, which will help the cake rise beautifully. - Add the milk (and optional yogurt), vegetable oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Sift in the flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract, and gently mix until there are no lumps. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cake’s light texture.
- Prepare to Bake:
Grease a baking dish of your choice and pour the batter into it. Add the cherries or any other fruit you’d like on top of the batter. - Bake the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, you can move the cake to a lower rack for the last 5-6 minutes of baking. - Cool and Decorate:
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar and, if you like, sprinkle extra lemon zest on top for an added burst of citrus. Serve and enjoy!
