Hello, fellow dessert aficionados! Today, we're diving into the zesty world of lemon cake. But not just any lemon cake - we're talking about a Fluffy and Moist Lemon Cake that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. The best part? It's easier to make than you might think. So, let's roll up our sleeves, gather our ingredients, and embark on a tangy, sweet journey!
Ingredients:
Before we get started, let's make sure we have all the ingredients on hand:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from those same 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x2-inch round cake pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Sift and Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender cake.
6. Pour and Bake:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and Frost (Optional):
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can frost it with your favorite lemon frosting or simply dust it with powdered sugar for a more rustic look.
8. Slice and Savor:
Once your Fluffy and Moist Lemon Cake is cooled and, if desired, frosted, it's time to slice and savor. Enjoy it with a hot cup of tea, as a light dessert after dinner, or any time you crave a burst of lemony goodness.
This Fluffy and Moist Lemon Cake is the perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a texture so light and airy, it practically melts in your mouth. It's a versatile dessert that suits any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners. The bright, citrusy flavor is a delightful reminder of sunny days, no matter the season. So, grab those lemons and let's bake up some lemony love! For the full recipe, check out the source [here](https://recipe.cotta.jp/recipe.php?recipeid=00012344).