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 enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, this cake’s delightful taste and texture will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest create a vibrant taste that elevates your dessert experience.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the butter and milk, each slice is wonderfully moist and tender.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this Lemon Pound Cake.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any event—from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Makes Great Leftovers: This cake stays delicious for days, making it ideal for meal prep or snacks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe for Lemon Pound Cake, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: An electric mixer makes it easy to achieve fluffy batter by thoroughly blending your ingredients.
• Loaf pan: A high-quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps maintain the cake’s shape.

Ingredients

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.

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 ensures that your Lemon Pound Cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

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

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt

Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture. Mix after each addition until fully incorporated. Then add fresh lemon juice and grated lemon zest; mix until combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Alternate with whole milk until everything is just combined. Be careful not to 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

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, drizzle with the glaze made from powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Pound Cake!

How to Serve Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon Pound Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it plain or with added flavors, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

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

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• A simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can add sweetness and an extra zing to each slice.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream pairs beautifully with the moist texture of Lemon Pound Cake, making every bite indulgent.

Topped with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream on the side elevates this dessert to a new level, perfect for warm days.

Served with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoying a slice of Lemon Pound Cake with a cup of tea or coffee complements its citrus notes wonderfully.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include Lemon Pound Cake in your brunch menu alongside other pastries and fruits for a refreshing option that guests will love.

How to Perfect Lemon Pound Cake

To achieve the best results when making Lemon Pound Cake, consider these tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature helps them incorporate better for a smoother batter.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid using too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake texture rather than the desired moistness.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
• Let It Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely for better flavor development.
• Enhance Flavor with Zest: Adding extra lemon zest can intensify the citrus flavor, giving your cake an aromatic boost.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pound Cake

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Pound Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the pound cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits creates a creamy contrast that complements the cake.
3. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a delightful textural difference alongside the soft pound cake.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, offers savory notes that pair well with lemon flavors.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dipping pieces of Lemon Pound Cake into warm chocolate adds an indulgent twist.
6. Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor contrasts beautifully with lemon while adding creaminess.
7. Lemon Sorbet: For those who crave more citrus, lemon sorbet provides a light and refreshing complement.
8. Herbed Scones: Savory scones bring an interesting balance to the sweet notes in the pound cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Pound Cake can seem simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best cake possible.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the texture of your cake. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Measuring flour incorrectly: Using too much flour can make your Lemon Pound Cake dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping the lemon zest: Lemon zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; always include fresh zest for that bright, tangy taste.
• Not testing for doneness: Every oven is different, and your cake may finish baking sooner or later than expected. Use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean from the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: This keeps your Lemon Pound Cake fresh.
• Lasts up to 5 days: Enjoy it within this time frame for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing Lemon Pound Cake

• Wrap securely: Use plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Lasts up to 3 months: Perfect for making ahead of time.

Reheating Lemon Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid on. Warm them gently, checking often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lemon Pound Cake is a popular dessert, and many have questions about it. Here are some common inquiries answered.

How long does Lemon Pound Cake last?

Lemon Pound Cake can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Lemon Pound Cake?

Yes! You can freeze Lemon Pound Cake for up to 3 months. Just be sure it’s wrapped well before freezing.

What makes this Lemon Pound Cake moist?

Using room temperature ingredients and not overmixing are key factors that help keep your cake moist and tender.

Can I add other flavors to my Lemon Pound Cake?

Absolutely! You can experiment with flavors like vanilla or almond extract or even add blueberries for an extra twist.

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

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done!

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Pound Cake recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Its bright lemon flavor makes it perfect for any occasion, from tea time to dessert after dinner. Feel free to customize it with different extracts or fruits like berries to suit your taste! Try making this delightful treat today!