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, hosting a tea party, or simply craving something delightful, this cake will impress everyone with its rich taste and lovely aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have your batter ready to go!
• Bursting with flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest provides a zesty kick that elevates this classic dessert.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a light glaze—perfect for any event!
• Moist texture: The use of butter and milk ensures that every slice is tender and delicious.
• Impressive presentation: Its beautiful golden color and crumb make it a stunning centerpiece on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your Lemon Pound Cake journey, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Loaf pan
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes the mixing process easy and helps achieve a light and fluffy batter.
• Loaf pan: Essential for shaping the cake while it bakes evenly.
• Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool properly without trapping moisture underneath, maintaining its texture.

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). Grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine:
* All-purpose flour
* Baking powder
* Salt

Whisk together until well mixed. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3–5 minutes using a stand mixer on medium speed.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the fresh lemon juice and grated lemon zest until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Add Milk

Pour in the whole milk and mix until smooth.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

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

Step 8: Cool

Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 9: Prepare Glaze

While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and whole milk in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 10: Glaze Your Cake

Once cooled completely, drizzle your glaze over the top of your Lemon Pound Cake for an extra touch of sweetness! Enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to make it extra special or keep it simple, here are some serving suggestions.

Classic Slice with Glaze

• Drizzle a homemade lemon glaze over each slice for added sweetness and a glossy finish.

Fresh Berries and Cream

• Serve your cake with a side of mixed fresh berries and whipped cream for a refreshing contrast.

Lemon Curd Spread

• Spread tangy lemon curd on top of the cake for an extra zing that complements its flavor beautifully.

Ice Cream Delight

• Pair warm slices of Lemon Pound Cake with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert experience.

Tea Time Treat

• Enjoy a slice during afternoon tea, accompanied by your favorite hot beverage for a soothing break.

Zesty Fruit Salad

• Add a side of citrus-infused fruit salad to enhance the lemon flavor and add freshness to your plate.

How to Perfect Lemon Pound Cake

Creating the perfect Lemon Pound Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create an even batter and ensures proper mixing for a tender crumb.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cake.

• Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.

• Cool completely before glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding any glaze to prevent it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon Pound Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Minted Pea Salad

2. A refreshing salad that balances the sweetness of the cake with its crisp texture and minty flavor.

3. Creamy Coleslaw

4. This crunchy side adds a creamy element that contrasts nicely with the moistness of the pound cake.

5. Roasted Asparagus

6. Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides an earthy complement to your sweet dessert.

7. Fruit Compote

8. A warm or chilled fruit compote brings out citrus notes and adds a burst of color to your plate.

9. Cheese Platter

10. A selection of cheeses can provide salty and savory notes, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

11. Savory Quiche

12. A slice of quiche offers rich flavors that balance well against the zesty lemon pound cake.

13. Honey Glazed Carrots

14. Sweet carrots glazed with honey make for an appealing sweet-savory pairing with your dessert.

15. Cucumber Sandwiches

16. Lightly seasoned cucumber sandwiches offer a refreshing crunch that offsets the richness of the pound cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Pound Cake, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the batter’s texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth mixture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy Lemon Pound Cake.
• Skipping the zest: Grated lemon zest is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip it, as it adds aromatic oils that enhance the lemony taste.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can make the cake dry. Use the spoon-and-level method or a kitchen scale for accuracy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Lemon Pound Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• For best results, wrap it in plastic wrap before placing it in a container.

Freezing Lemon Pound Cake

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
• Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating Lemon Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Slice and place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Lemon Pound Cake so moist?

The combination of butter, eggs, and whole milk creates a rich batter that keeps the cake moist and tender throughout its baking process.

Can I use another citrus instead of lemon?

Yes! You can substitute lemon juice and zest with orange or lime for a different flavor profile while still enjoying a delicious pound cake.

How do I know when my Lemon Pound Cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it’s done when it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I add other flavors to my Lemon Pound Cake?

Absolutely! Consider adding poppy seeds, blueberries, or even almond extract for additional depth of flavor while maintaining that classic lemon essence.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Pound Cake is not only sweet and tangy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for any occasion, you can easily customize it with different flavors or toppings. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with frosting, this recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!