Delicious Lemon Pound Cake Recipe - Perfectly Moist And Zesty
What is Lemon Pound Cake?
Lemon pound cake is a classic dessert known for its rich, buttery flavor and refreshing citrus notes. This delightful cake is a variation of the traditional pound cake, incorporating fresh lemon juice and zest for a zesty twist. Perfectly moist and dense, lemon pound cake is ideal for afternoon tea, celebrations, or as a sweet treat any time of the day.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Pound Cake
There are many reasons to fall in love with lemon pound cake. Here are a few:
- Bright Flavor: The tartness of fresh lemons adds vibrancy to the classic cake.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like flour, butter, sugar, and eggs, it's easy to whip up.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday or a casual get-together, lemon pound cake fits right in.
How to Make the Perfect Lemon Pound Cake
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream and lemon juice. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the lemon zest gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
For an elegant touch, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over your cooled lemon pound cake. To make the glaze, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Pour over the cake and enjoy!
Storage Tips for Lemon Pound Cake
Lemon pound cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
Conclusion
Lemon pound cake is a timeless dessert that brings a burst of sunshine to any table. With its delicious flavor and easy preparation, it’s no wonder this cake remains a favorite worldwide. Try making it today and savor the delightful combination of buttery cake and zesty lemon!