Lemon pound cake

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Lemon Pound Cake: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Lemon Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of a traditional pound cake with the zesty, refreshing flavor of lemon. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a brunch, or a simple treat to enjoy with tea. The balance of buttery sweetness and bright citrus makes it a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The origins of pound cake can be traced back to Europe, specifically to England in the 18th century. Named after the traditional recipe’s proportions (one pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour), this cake was easy to remember and prepare.

The addition of lemon is a later innovation, adding a fresh, citrusy flavor that complements the cake’s dense and buttery texture. Over time, lemon pound cake became popular in both the United States and Europe, often found at family gatherings, church events, and tea parties.

Ingredients Quantity

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk (or sour cream)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Optional Additions

  • Lemon glaze: Combine 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons lemon juice for a tangy drizzle.
  • Blueberries: Add 1 cup of fresh blueberries for a fruit-forward twist.
  • Lemon extract: For a more intense lemon flavor, substitute a small amount of lemon extract for part of the lemon zest.

Tips for Success

  1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature before starting. This helps to achieve a smooth batter and even texture.
  2. Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together to avoid lumps and ensure an even rise.
  3. Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the batter to avoid overworking the flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
  4. Grease and Flour Your Pan: Properly grease and flour your cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
  5. Check for Doneness: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Overbaking can result in a dry cake.

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Flavors: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
  5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with lemon glaze before serving.

Description

Lemon Pound Cake is a moist, buttery, and slightly dense cake with a burst of citrus flavor. The lemon zest adds a fragrant aroma while the juice gives the cake a tangy, refreshing kick. The crumb is light yet satisfying, and the cake has a beautiful golden-brown exterior. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a tangy lemon glaze makes it even more indulgent, adding a perfect touch of sweetness.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Servings)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Sugars: 25g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 15% DV
  • Vitamin C: 10% DV
  • Calcium: 2% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV

Conclusion

Lemon Pound Cake is a delicious, refreshing dessert that strikes a perfect balance between rich and light flavors. It’s an easy-to-make treat that can be enjoyed by all, from family gatherings to casual afternoon snacks. The addition of lemon elevates the classic pound cake into something special, making it an ideal recipe to add to your baking repertoire.

Recommendation

For those who love a good, citrusy dessert, Lemon Pound Cake is a must-try. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with add-ins like berries or a glaze. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or simply as a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its balance of sweetness and tang. Embrace the healthful indulgence of this classic dessert and savor each slice.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While Lemon Pound Cake is rich and indulgent, it can still be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. You can even make a lighter version by reducing the sugar or using whole wheat flour for added fiber. Incorporating fresh lemon juice and zest provides an extra dose of vitamin C, and using high-quality butter can enhance the flavor without compromising texture.

Embrace the joy of baking with this healthful yet indulgent treat!

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