Lemon Pound Cake

Sweet, lemony, and moist, this Lemon Pound Cake comes together in a few simple steps. Bursting with bright lemon flavors, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a delightful treat with your afternoon tea, this cake will impress everyone at the table. Its rich texture and vibrant taste make it a standout choice for both casual and festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Lemon Pound Cake requires minimal effort with just a few simple steps.
• Bursting with Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest provide a zesty kick that elevates the cake’s taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain, with icing, or alongside fresh berries for extra flair.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or even as a sweet snack during the week.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the butter and eggs, every slice stays deliciously moist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Loaf pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly by mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for baking a classic pound cake, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (300g)
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) (227g)
• 1¼ cup sugar (250g)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
• ½ cup whole milk (room temperature) (120mL)

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons whole milk

How to Make Lemon Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. Dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Sugar
Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Lemon Juice

Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in:
1. Fresh lemon juice
2. Grated lemon zest

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while alternating with:
1. Whole milk
Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. For glazing, mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice and milk until smooth; drizzle over cooled cake before serving.

How to Serve Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your Lemon Pound Cake experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of Lemon Pound Cake topped with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Enhance the citrus flavor by drizzling a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cake. This adds sweetness and tanginess.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream alongside each slice offers a creamy contrast to the moist cake, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Paired with Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream. The cold ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Adding fresh mint leaves as a garnish not only enhances the presentation but also provides a refreshing aroma that pairs well with lemon.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Slice the Lemon Pound Cake into bite-sized pieces and serve it on a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies or mini tarts for variety.

How to Perfect Lemon Pound Cake

To achieve the ultimate Lemon Pound Cake, consider these essential tips that ensure your cake is flavorful and moist.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature helps create an emulsion, resulting in a smoother batter and better texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake while too little can make it fall apart.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cake due to gluten development.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. This prevents overbaking.
• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.
• Store Correctly: Keep your Lemon Pound Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon Pound Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its bright flavor. Here are some fantastic options to consider when serving this delightful dessert.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cake.
2. Gelato: Creamy gelato in flavors such as lemon or vanilla creates an indulgent combination with the pound cake.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs excellently with lemon’s tartness.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dipping pieces of pound cake into rich chocolate fondue provides an exciting flavor contrast.
5. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix can add texture and flavor depth when enjoyed alongside your slice of cake.
6. Scones: Light scones, especially those flavored with lemon or herbs, make for an elegant side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Pound Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final product. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to a dense cake. Always let your eggs and butter sit out for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough texture. Mix until just combined for a tender Lemon Pound Cake.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This ensures you use the right amount of flour, preventing a dry cake.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.
• Not letting it cool properly: Cooling too quickly can cause cracks. Let your Lemon Pound Cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: This keeps your Lemon Pound Cake fresh.
• Best consumed within 5–7 days: For optimal flavor and texture, eat it within this time.

Freezing Lemon Pound Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap: Ensure no air gets in to avoid freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months: Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Lemon Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15–20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Pound Cake, along with their answers.

How do I make Lemon Pound Cake moist?

To ensure a moist Lemon Pound Cake, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing. The addition of milk helps too!

Can I add fruits to my Lemon Pound Cake?

Yes! Adding blueberries or raspberries can enhance flavor. Just fold them gently into the batter before baking.

What is the best way to glaze my Lemon Pound Cake?

A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice works beautifully. Drizzle it over once the cake has cooled completely.

How long does homemade Lemon Pound Cake last?

Homemade Lemon Pound Cake typically lasts about 5–7 days in the refrigerator if stored properly.

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?

While you can use lemon extract, fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavor that enhances this dessert’s appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Pound Cake is not only sweet and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding fruits or adjusting the glaze according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!