Description
Indulge in the divine taste of Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake, a timeless classic that will transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of homemade goodness. This rich, creamy dessert features a tender cake base topped with a tangy lemon custard filling and a light dusting of powdered sugar, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions
1. – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. – In a large bowl, cream the butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.
4. – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, mixing just until combined.
5. – Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. – Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. – In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Gradually whisk in the milk and egg yolks.
8. – Cook the custard over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
9. – Once the cake and custard are both cool, use a serrated knife to split the cake horizontally into two layers.
10. – Spread the lemon custard evenly over the bottom layer, then carefully place the top layer back on.
11. – Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
For best results, make the lemon custard a day in advance and chill it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the cake. This allows the custard to thicken and set properly. You can also add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the custard for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian