Description
Italian-inspired lemon custard cake delights with silky smooth layers of creamy brightness. Zesty citrus and delicate sweetness combine in this elegant dessert that promises pure culinary pleasure for anyone craving a sophisticated treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 eggs, room temperature (separated)
- 1 ¾ cups milk, lukewarm
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
Flavor Enhancers:
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 large lemons (grated zest)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Finishing Ingredient:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare a pristine 8×8-inch baking vessel by draping parchment paper with slight overhangs, ensuring a light coating of cooking spray for effortless release.
- Vigorously whip egg whites until they form rigid, glossy peaks and set aside momentarily.
- In a spacious mixing vessel, cream egg yolks and sugar until the mixture transforms into a pale, silky consistency.
- Incorporate melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until thoroughly amalgamated.
- Gently fold flour into the creamy mixture, ensuring complete integration without overmixing.
- Introduce freshly extracted lemon juice and delicate zest, blending until harmoniously combined.
- Stream lukewarm milk into the batter, whisking continuously to achieve a smooth, liquid-like texture.
- Delicately fold the stiff egg whites into the batter, embracing small white clusters that will create a ethereal top layer during baking.
- Transfer the gossamer-thin batter into the prepared baking dish, ensuring even distribution.
- Position in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven, monitoring closely after 35 minutes to prevent excessive browning. Shield with aluminum foil if needed.
- Bake until the center maintains a gentle wobble while the surface feels firm, typically 40-60 minutes.
- Allow the cake to cool completely within the baking dish, then dust with a whisper of powdered sugar.
- Refrigerate any remaining portions for optimal preservation.
Notes
- Craft this delicate dessert with patience, as its unique layered texture develops during baking.
- Use fresh, high-quality lemons for the most vibrant and bright citrus flavor that elevates the entire cake.
- Watch the baking time carefully, as even a few extra minutes can transform the dreamy custard texture into a rubbery consistency.
- Ensure ingredients are at room temperature to create a smooth, well-incorporated batter that guarantees the signature light and creamy result.
- The egg white technique is crucial – gently fold them to maintain the cake’s signature airy and delicate layered structure.
- Refrigerate leftovers and enjoy within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture, as the custard can lose its magical consistency over time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 85 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg