Description
This lemon cake features delicate cake layers topped with a crisp, golden meringue and filled with a luscious lemon curd and whipped cream. It’s the perfect dessert for those who love a sweet and tangy treat with an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake Layers
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, separated (yolks and whites divided)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
For the Meringue
- 4 large egg whites (reserved from above)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
For the Filling
- 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Layers:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined.
- Make the Meringue:
- In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, whisking until the meringue is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
- Assemble and Bake the Layers:
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Spread the meringue evenly over the batter in both pans, swirling to create a textured effect.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meringue is crisp and lightly golden.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before carefully removing them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Assemble the Lemon Meringue Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate, meringue side up.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top, followed by a layer of lemon curd.
- Place the second cake layer on top, meringue side up, and gently press down.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes to set, or serve immediately for a fresh, zesty treat.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish, if desired.
Notes
- If you want a richer filling, use homemade lemon curd for an even fresher flavor.
- You can also add a bit of lemon zest to the whipped cream for an extra citrusy punch.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes