Lemon Pound Cake Recipe

Introduction

Lemon pound cake is a classic dessert that combines the rich, buttery texture of traditional pound cake with the refreshing zest of lemon. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a sweet afternoon snack. With its moist crumb and tangy glaze, lemon pound cake is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making the perfect lemon pound cake, from ingredients and instructions to serving suggestions and additional tips. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Creating a delicious lemon pound cake starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk

For the Lemon Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a mouth-watering lemon pound cake:

Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add eggs one at a time: Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth batter.
5. Incorporate lemon and vanilla: Mix in the lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
7. Pour into the loaf pan: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Preparing the Lemon Glaze

10. Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and glossy.
11. Glaze the cake: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your lemon pound cake can help you enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving (based on 12 servings per cake):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 29g
• Protein: 4g

How to Serve

When it comes to serving lemon pound cake, the experience can be transformed into a delightful occasion with a few thoughtful enhancements. Not only does the cake’s zesty flavor deserve to shine, but its visual appeal can be equally captivating. Here are some detailed ideas to elevate your presentation and make your lemon pound cake a show-stopping centerpiece at any gathering:

1. With Fresh Berries: Garnishing your lemon pound cake with fresh berries is an excellent way to introduce vibrant colors and complementary flavors. Consider using a medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Each berry brings its unique sweetness and tartness, which beautifully balances the cake’s rich, buttery texture and zesty lemon notes. For an added touch, you can create a small berry compote by gently simmering the berries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to enhance their natural flavors. Drizzle this compote over the cake slices or serve it on the side in small ramekins for guests to add as they please. Not only do the berries provide a pop of color, but they also offer a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall taste experience.
2. A Scoop of Ice Cream: Pairing a slice of lemon pound cake with a scoop of ice cream elevates the dessert into a sinfully indulgent treat. Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, offering a creamy and smooth texture that complements the cake’s citrusy flavor without overpowering it. For a more adventurous pairing, consider lemon sorbet, which enhances the cake’s lemony essence and adds a refreshing, icy element that’s perfect for warmer months. To create an impressive presentation, use an ice cream scoop to form a perfect ball and place it atop the cake slice. You can further garnish with a sprig of mint or a few more fresh berries for a beautiful contrast and added freshness.
3. Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar can transform your lemon pound cake from simple to sophisticated. To achieve an even, delicate coating, use a fine mesh sieve or a sifter to sprinkle the sugar over the cake just before serving. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also creates a beautiful visual effect, resembling freshly fallen snow on a winter landscape. For an extra layer of sophistication, you can infuse the powdered sugar with lemon zest or a hint of vanilla bean powder before dusting. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a subtle aroma that elevates the overall sensory experience.
4. Whipped Cream: Serving lemon pound cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream introduces a luscious richness that perfectly balances the cake’s bright flavors. For the best results, whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This homemade whipped cream is light and airy, providing a delightful contrast to the dense texture of the pound cake. To enhance the presentation, consider piping the whipped cream onto the cake using a pastry bag fitted with a decorative tip, creating elegant swirls or rosettes. For an added touch, you can flavor the whipped cream with a little lemon zest or a splash of limoncello to tie it back to the cake’s citrus theme.
5. Garnish with Edible Flowers: For a truly stunning presentation, consider garnishing your lemon pound cake with edible flowers such as pansies, nasturtiums, or violets. These flowers not only add a vibrant touch but also bring a delicate floral note that complements the lemon. Ensure that the flowers are organic and safe for consumption. Arrange a few flowers artfully on the plate alongside the cake or atop the whipped cream for an Instagram-worthy dessert that will impress your guests. This unexpected detail will enhance the visual appeal and make the cake feel even more special.
6. Citrus Zest and Candied Peel: Elevate your lemon pound cake further by adding a sprinkle of fresh citrus zest or some candied lemon peel on top. The fresh zest adds a burst of color and reinforces the lemon flavor, while the candied peel provides a sweet, chewy contrast that enhances the cake’s texture. To make candied peel, simply simmer strips of lemon peel in a sugar syrup until they become translucent, then let them dry. This garnish not only looks beautiful but also gives a nod to the cake’s key ingredient.

By incorporating these thoughtful presentation ideas, you can transform a simple slice of lemon pound cake into an extraordinary dessert experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home, these enhancements will delight your guests and make each serving feel like a special event.

Additional Tips

Baking a lemon pound cake can be a delightful experience, but small adjustments can elevate your creation to a whole new level. Here are some comprehensive tips to enhance your lemon pound cake experience, ensuring it turns out perfectly every time.

Room Temperature Ingredients

One of the most crucial aspects of baking is the temperature of your ingredients. For a lemon pound cake, using room temperature ingredients—such as butter, eggs, and milk—makes a significant difference in achieving a smoother batter and a better rise. When butter is at room temperature, it can trap air more effectively during the creaming process, leading to a lighter texture. Similarly, room temperature eggs emulsify better, resulting in a more uniform batter. To bring ingredients to room temperature quickly, you can:

• Butter: Cut it into small cubes and leave it out on the counter for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can gently warm it in the microwave in short bursts, being careful not to melt it.
• Eggs: Place cold eggs in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes to hasten the warming process.
• Milk: Measure out the milk and leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start mixing.

Lemon Zest Technique

The zest of a lemon is a key element in enhancing the flavor of your pound cake. To achieve the best results, it’s essential to use the right technique for zesting. A microplane grater is highly recommended for this task, as it allows you to obtain fine shavings of zest without the bitter white pith beneath the skin. Here’s how to zest effectively:

1. Select Fresh Lemons: Choose firm, bright lemons that feel heavy for their size, as they tend to have more juice and flavorful zest.
2. Wash the Lemons: Rinse the lemons under cold water to remove any wax or pesticides, then dry them thoroughly.
3. Zesting: Hold the lemon in one hand and the microplane in the other. Gently glide the lemon across the microplane, rotating it as you go to zest the entire surface. Be careful to only remove the bright yellow skin; stop zesting as soon as you hit the bitter white pith, as it can overpower the cake’s flavor.

Check for Doneness

Baking times can vary based on your oven and the materials used, so it’s essential to check for doneness while baking. A perfectly baked lemon pound cake should have a golden-brown exterior and a firm top, but if you notice that the top is browning too quickly, here’s what you can do:

• Use Aluminum Foil: If the cake is browning excessively, loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will shield the top from direct heat without impeding the cake’s ability to rise and set properly.
• Toothpick Test: To ensure the cake is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the cake is done. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking and check again in a few minutes.

Storage

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and flavor of your lemon pound cake. Here are some guidelines to ensure your cake stays delicious:

• Airtight Container: Once cooled, place any leftover cake in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. If you don’t have a container, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to retain moisture.
• Room Temperature: The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Refrigeration: If you need to store the cake for a longer period, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember that refrigeration can sometimes dry out the cake, so it’s best to consume it within a few days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.

By following these tips, you can enhance your lemon pound cake experience, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor and perfectly textured. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Keep in mind that the flavor may not be as vibrant.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes xanthan gum for structure.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I freeze lemon pound cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Lemon pound cake is a timeless dessert that brings together the best of buttery richness and citrus brilliance. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this guide provides you with everything you need to create a delectable lemon pound cake that will be the star of any gathering. With its simple yet sophisticated flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and share this delightful treat with your loved ones. Happy baking!

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