Spring Zesty Lemon Garden Cak

Short Description

The Spring Zesty Lemon Garden Cake is a light and refreshing dessert that captures the bright flavors of the season. Infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, this cake is moist, tender, and finished with a tangy glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s the perfect treat for springtime gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a cheerful finish to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lemon cake is everything a spring dessert should be: simple, vibrant, and full of fresh flavor. The soft crumb, balanced tartness, and delicate sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare with everyday ingredients and delivers a beautiful presentation with a lemon glaze and optional candied lemon peel. Whether you’re baking for a brunch or looking for a light dessert, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Golden caster sugar
• Large eggs
• Unwaxed lemons (zest and juice)
• Vanilla extract
• Self-raising flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Greek yogurt
• Icing sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Water

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 170°C (150°C fan). Grease and line an 18 cm deep, loose-bottom cake tin.
2. Cream the softened butter and golden caster sugar until pale and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
5. Gently fold in the self-raising flour, baking powder, salt, and Greek yogurt until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. To make the glaze, mix icing sugar with fresh lemon juice until it forms a thick but pourable consistency.
10. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it drip slightly over the sides.
11. For an optional garnish, simmer lemon peel in a sugar-water mixture to create candied lemon peel, then place on top of the cake once dry.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Layer Cake: Bake in two shallow pans and layer with lemon curd or whipped cream.
• Citrus Swap: Use orange or lime zest and juice for a different twist.
• Frosted Version: Top with a cream cheese frosting instead of glaze for a richer dessert.
• Gluten-Free: Replace self-raising flour with a gluten-free alternative and adjust baking powder as needed.
• Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy yogurt, and egg substitutes to make it vegan.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Can be kept chilled for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze the undecorated cake for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and glaze before serving.

FAQs

What kind of lemons are best for this cake?

Unwaxed lemons are ideal, especially since both zest and juice are used. If only waxed lemons are available, wash them thoroughly in warm water before zesting.

Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising flour?

Yes, substitute the self-raising flour with plain flour and add 2 teaspoons of baking powder.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

Add more icing sugar until you reach your desired consistency. For a thinner glaze, add more lemon juice.

Can I add poppy seeds to the batter?

Yes, adding a tablespoon of poppy seeds gives the cake a nice texture and complements the lemon flavor.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, the undecorated cake freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

What other decorations can I use?

Try fresh edible flowers, lemon slices, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty finish.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. Add the glaze and garnish just before serving.

Why is my cake dense instead of fluffy?

Overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients can make the cake dense. Be sure to mix gently and use room-temperature ingredients.

Conclusion

The Spring Zesty Lemon Garden Cake is a bright and cheerful dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. With its tender crumb, vibrant citrus flavor, and light glaze, it brings a refreshing touch to any table. Perfect for spring celebrations or a simple sweet treat, this cake is a must-try for lemon lovers.

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