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Lemon Cake with Fluffy Meringue Layers


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  • Author: Lina Judi
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

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