lemon cakes Great Gatsby recipe
Indulge in a lemon cakes Great Gatsby recipe with a rich, buttery texture and bright citrus flavor perfect for elegant parties or afternoon tea!
Ingredients
For the Lemon Cakes:
- 1 ½ cups cake flour – Creates a soft delicate crumb
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cakes rise beautifully
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor balance
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened – For a rich, buttery texture
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Adds the perfect touch of sweetness
- 2 large eggs room temperature – Provides structure and moisture
- ¼ cup buttermilk – Ensures a tender moist crumb
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – For a bright refreshing citrus flavor
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Intensifies the lemon aroma
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle depth of flavor
For the Lemon Glaze (Optional but Highly Recommended!):
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth sweet glaze
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Gives a tangy kick
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Balances the tartness
Optional Garnishes for a Gatsby-Inspired Look:
- Gold dust or edible gold flakes – For a touch of 1920s luxury
- Edible pearls – Enhances the elegant presentation
- Thin lemon slices – A fresh decorative topping
Ingredient Tips:
- Use fresh lemons – Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same vibrant flavor.
- Room temperature ingredients – Butter eggs, and buttermilk blend better, making the batter smoother.
- Sift the flour – This prevents lumps and creates a finer cake texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Tools
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking.
- Lightly grease a muffin tin or mini cake molds with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting removes lumps and helps create a delicate crumb.
- Whisk everything lightly to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. Mix until it turns light, fluffy, and pale (about 2-3 minutes). This step is crucial for achieving an airy texture.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them.
Step 4: Incorporate the Flavor & Moisture
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. These ingredients will infuse the batter with a bright citrusy aroma.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients for a smooth, well-mixed batter.
- Be careful not to overmix—a gentle fold ensures a tender cake texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake molds, filling each about ¾ full to allow space for rising.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once done, let the cakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Glaze (Optional but Recommended!)
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but slightly thick.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cakes and let it set for 10 minutes before serving.
Final Touch for a Gatsby-Worthy Look
- Sprinkle with gold dust or edible pearls for a luxurious touch.
- Garnish with thin lemon slices or zest for extra flair.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g