Delve into the radiant world of our Sunshine on a Plate Ooey Gooey Lemon Butter Cake. This dessert is a dream come true for lemon lovers, featuring a vibrant, tangy lemon filling encased in a buttery, tender cake. Bursting with fresh lemon juice and zest, and enriched with the richness of eggs, this cake embodies the essence of sunshine in every slice. Simple to make yet incredibly indulgent, it’s the perfect fusion of a butter cake and a lemony cheesecake.
Why You’ll Love This:
This cake is an absolute delight for anyone who adores lemon-flavored desserts. The robust lemon flavor, enhanced by the creamy texture of the filling, offers a refreshing and tangy taste that’s perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the cake. The use of fresh lemon zest and juice ensures a burst of natural flavor that makes each bite more exhilarating than the last. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields a dessert with a complex flavor profile, making it a must-try for culinary enthusiasts and casual bakers alike.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, this cake is a wonderful addition to any brunch, garden party, or family dinner. It’s also a delightful choice for Easter celebrations, Mother’s Day, or any occasion that calls for a light yet flavorful dessert. Serve this cake as a cheerful treat that brightens up any meal or as a special dessert that impresses your guests with its delightful flavors and textures.
Decoration Tips:
For an elegant finish, dust the cooled cake with icing sugar just before serving. You can also garnish with thin lemon slices or candied lemon peels for an extra pop of color and lemony zing. A few sprigs of mint or a dollop of whipped cream can add a fresh and creamy element that complements the tangy lemon filling beautifully.
Ingredients: Cake:
- 200g granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 225g unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 335g all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
Filling:
- 225g cream cheese, softened
- 250g powdered sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Method:
- Start by mixing the granulated sugar with the lemon zest in a bowl. Rub them together with your hands to release the oils from the zest, enhancing the lemon flavor.
- Whisk together the salt, lemon juice, egg, and cooled melted butter in a large bowl. Gradually fold in the flour and baking powder until the mixture is well combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into a greased 8-inch cake pan and set aside.
- For the filling, whisk the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the egg yolks, lemon juice, and lemon zest, continuing to whisk until the mixture is creamy.
- Gently press down the center of the batter in the pan to create a well. Carefully pour the filling into this well, ensuring it doesn’t spread to the edges.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (338°F) for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the filling is set.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan, then dust with powdered sugar. Cool completely for about an hour before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Enjoy this luscious Ooey Gooey Lemon Butter Cake, a dessert that promises a burst of lemony freshness and a satisfyingly sweet finish!
