Lemon Curd Cake Recipe

Lemon Curd Cake Recipe

If you’re a fan of tangy yet sweet desserts, then a lemon curd cake is a must-try. This delightful treat combines the zesty flavors of lemon with a rich, buttery cake base. The result is a light and refreshing dessert that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.

But where do you start when it comes to making a lemon curd cake? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive recipe guide. From making the lemon curd from scratch to assembling and decorating the cake, we’ll walk you through each step. Let’s dive in!

Making the Lemon Curd

Ingredients:

– 4 lemons, zest, and juice
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed

Instructions:

1. Start by zesting and juicing the lemons. Set aside the zest and juice in separate bowls.
2. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined.
3. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
4. Add the lemon juice and cubed butter to the bowl and continue whisking until the butter melts and the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in the lemon zest and continue whisking for another minute.
6. Remove the bowl from the heat and let the lemon curd cool completely before using it in the cake.

Preparing the Cake

Ingredients:

– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
8. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Assembling the Cake

Ingredients:

– 1 batch of homemade lemon curd
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– Fresh berries (optional)

Instructions:

1. Once the cakes have cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops if needed. This will ensure a flat surface for stacking.
2. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of lemon curd evenly over the top.
3. Top with the second cake layer and press down gently to secure it in place.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This will be the frosting for the cake.
5. Spread the whipped cream over the top and sides of the cake, creating a smooth and even layer.
6. If desired, garnish the cake with fresh berries for added freshness and visual appeal.
7. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the cream to set.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, if you’re short on time or don’t feel like making your own lemon curd, you can use store-bought lemon curd as a substitute. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

Q. Can I freeze the lemon curd cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Q. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This lemon curd cake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Q. What other variations can I try?

If you’d like to experiment with different flavors, you can add a touch of lavender extract to the cake batter or fold in some fresh raspberries into the lemon curd for a berry twist.

Final Thoughts

A lemon curd cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the bright flavors of lemon and a moist, buttery cake. By following this recipe, you can create a show-stopping treat that will impress your friends and family. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your craving for something sweet, this lemon curd cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try and indulge in a slice of tangy goodness?