Lemon Curd Cake

When life gives you lemons, why settle for just lemonade? Transform those zesty, sun-kissed fruits into a delightful and tangy treat that will brighten up your day – Lemon Curd Cake! This exquisite dessert combines the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a favorite among dessert enthusiasts worldwide. In this blog post, we will explore the tantalizing world of Lemon Curd Cake, from its history and ingredients to the step-by-step baking process. So, let’s dive in and discover the recipe that will add a slice of sunshine to your day.

A Brief History of Lemon Curd Cake:

Lemon Curd Cake, as we know it today, has evolved from traditional English and Scottish recipes that date back to the 19th century. Lemon curd itself has a long history, with mentions dating as far back as the 17th century. Originally, lemon curd was used as a spread or filling for sandwiches, scones, and tarts. However, its application in cakes began to gain popularity in the 20th century.

Ingredients:

Cake:

• • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest (from 2-3 lemons)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup whole milk

Lemon Curd:

• • 3 large eggs
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest

Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest

The Baking Process:

1. Prepare the Lemon Curd:
   • Whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a saucepan.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
   • Remove from heat, and stir in butter until it’s fully melted.
   • Transfer the lemon curd to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator.
2. Bake the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
   • In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In another large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
   • Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
   • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
3. Make the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:
   • Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
   • Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat until well combined.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of lemon curd on top of one of the cakes.
   • Place the second cake on top and frost the entire cake with the lemon cream cheese frosting.

Tips and Variations:

1. Fresh Lemons are Key: To achieve the best flavor, always use fresh lemons for both the lemon zest and juice. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it lacks the vibrant citrus notes of fresh lemons.
2. Customize Your Cake: While this recipe focuses on the classic lemon curd cake, don’t be afraid to get creative. You can add a layer of fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries between the cake layers for a burst of color and fruity goodness.
3. Decoration: Enhance the cake’s visual appeal by decorating it with lemon slices, lemon zest, or edible flowers. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add a touch of elegance.
4. Gluten-Free Option: If you or someone you’re baking for has a gluten intolerance, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make the cake.
5. Storage: Store your Lemon Curd Cake in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting. It can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when properly covered. However, if you can’t finish it within that time, you can freeze individual slices for longer storage.
6. Serve with Tea or Coffee: Lemon Curd Cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a delightful choice for afternoon tea or dessert.
7. Experiment with Citrus: While lemon is the star of this cake, don’t hesitate to experiment with other citrus fruits like lime, orange, or even a combination of them for unique flavor profiles.