Introduction
There’s something timeless and comforting about a classic Lemon Pound Cake. This quick and easy recipe combines the tangy zest and juice of fresh lemons with a rich, buttery cake, creating a dessert that is both simple and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert after a family meal or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this Lemon Pound Cake is sure to brighten your day. Topped with a simple two-ingredient lemon glaze, this cake offers a burst of citrus flavor in every bite. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful treat, complete with tips and tricks to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.
How to Make a Lemon Pound Cake
Ingredients
For the Lemon Pound Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 tablespoons lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease an 8×4 inch loaf pan generously with butter or shortening to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. This step ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is key to a well-risen cake.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and creamy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The creaming process is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, giving the cake its tender texture.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until each egg is incorporated. It’s important not to overmix at this stage to prevent the cake from becoming dense. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and the beater as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 5: Incorporate the Lemon Zest and Juice
Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the batter, mixing on low speed just until they are slightly incorporated. The lemon zest will infuse the cake with a deep citrus flavor, while the juice adds a fresh, tangy note.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients and the sour cream alternately. Start by adding a portion of the flour mixture, then a portion of the sour cream, and continue alternating until both are fully incorporated. This alternating method helps maintain the cake’s light texture.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you notice the cake browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. After this initial cooling period, carefully invert the cake onto a cooling rack and let it cool completely for about 1 hour.
Step 9: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
While the cake is cooling, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
Step 10: Glaze the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle or brush the lemon glaze over the top. The glaze will add an extra layer of lemony sweetness and a beautiful shine to the cake.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Pound Cake
- Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh lemon zest. The oils in the zest provide a vibrant citrus aroma that you won’t get from bottled juice.
- Don’t Overmix: After adding the eggs and dry ingredients, mix the batter just until everything is combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend more easily and evenly into the batter.
- Watch the Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cake at the 45-minute mark. If the cake is browning too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Inverting the Cake: Be careful when inverting the cake onto a cooling rack. If the cake is still too warm, it might break apart.
FAQ
How can I store the Lemon Pound Cake?
The Lemon Pound Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to refrigerate it, it will last for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor. Freshly squeezed juice has a brighter, more vibrant taste that enhances the cake’s overall flavor.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of lemon juice slightly or add more powdered sugar. Mix until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I add more lemon flavor to the cake?
Absolutely! If you want a more intense lemon flavor, you can add ½ to 1 teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter along with the lemon juice and zest.
What can I do if my cake turns out too dense?
A dense cake might be the result of overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid overmixing once the eggs and flour are added. Also, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
This Lemon Pound Cake recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery flavor of a classic pound cake with the bright, zesty freshness of lemons. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and taste. Enjoy every bite of this moist, flavorful cake, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!