There’s just something magical about the smell of lemon pound cake baking in the oven that brings me back to my childhood. I can still see my grandmother, standing in her sunny kitchen, zesting a lemon with a smile as bright as the fruit itself. This cake has a wonderful way of brightening even the cloudiest of days, and trust me, it’s not just about the taste—it’s about the memories. I’ve made it countless times, and each moment spent baking has been filled with laughter and warmth. It’s the perfect companion for afternoon tea or a cozy get-together with friends. Plus, who can resist that glorious golden crust?
If you’re looking for a slice of sunshine or simply a way to impress your friends at your next brunch, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s dive into making this delectable Lemon Pound Cake together.
What’s in Lemon Pound Cake?
butter: This is the star of the show! Using unsalted butter gives the cake a rich flavor and helps create that delightful moist texture we all love.
granulated sugar: You can’t have a pound cake without sugar! It sweetens the cake and helps with that lovely golden crust.
eggs: These act as a binder, giving the cake structure and a tender crumb. Make sure they’re at room temperature for best results!
all-purpose flour: This classic ingredient provides the base. I usually go for a good quality brand to ensure perfect texture.
baking powder: It’s the leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully. Without it, we’d be stuck with a flat cake!
salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
lemon zest: The zest is where all that vibrant citrus flavor comes from! I always use fresh lemons for the best taste.
lemon juice: Fresh, of course! This adds that refreshing zing that makes lemon pound cake irresistible.
Is Lemon Pound Cake Good for You?
Now, let’s be honest, while lemon pound cake is an absolute treat, it’s also important to enjoy it in moderation. Here are some health benefits and considerations:
Butter: While it adds rich flavor, butter is high in saturated fat. Make sure to enjoy this cake as an occasional indulgence!
Lemon: The zesty powerhouse adds vitamin C and antioxidants. It’s great for your immune system and offers fresh flavor!
Eggs: They’re a significant source of protein and contain essential nutrients. They contribute to making your cake fluffy and delicious.
Overall, while this cake may not be “health food,” it’s perfect for a little treat now and then. It’s all about balance, right?
Ingredients List
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Zest of 2 lemons
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 cup milk
– About 12 servings
How to Make Lemon Pound Cake?
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-cup bundt pan or two loaf pans.
2. **Cream the butter and sugar**: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes.
3. **Add the eggs**: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
4. **Mix dry ingredients**: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. **Combine**: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Fold in the lemon zest and juice until just combined.
6. **Transfer to pan**: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt or loaf pans, smoothing the top.
7. **Bake**: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool and remove**: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. **Glaze (optional)**: If you’re feeling fancy, mix some powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a simple glaze and drizzle over the cooled cake.
Sweet Tips for a Zesty Delight
– For an extra lemony punch, consider using lemon extract along with the zest and juice.
– If you want to shake things up, add blueberries or poppy seeds for a fun variation!
– Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
I hope you give this lemon pound cake a try—it’s a slice of happiness that’s perfect for any occasion! Share your creations and let me know how it turned out. Happy baking!
