Introduction
Lemon pound cake is a delightful dessert that is rich, moist, and full of citrusy flavor. It’s perfect for tea time, special occasions, or just a sweet treat to enjoy anytime. This recipe will guide you through making a classic lemon pound cake from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, mixing until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Pound Cake
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter to ensure a soft and moist texture.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent melting.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
2. Can I freeze lemon pound cake?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
3. What can I serve with lemon pound cake?
Enjoy it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
4. Can I make this cake without sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a similar texture.
5. Why did my cake turn out dry?
Overbaking or using too much flour can cause dryness. Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and check for doneness early.
Conclusion
Lemon pound cake is a simple yet elegant dessert with a bright and zesty flavor. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make a delicious homemade cake that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy baking!