Lemon cake

Lemon Cake - a quick and simple dessert, full of flavor, perfect for any occasion

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Looking for a dessert that combines the freshness of citrus with the fluffy texture of a traditional cake? Then this lemon cake recipe is the ideal choice. This quick dessert is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious, perfect for finishing off a family meal or impressing friends at a gathering.

Ingredients:
- 200 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 250 g sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 4 eggs
- 300 g flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 100 ml milk (optional, for a moister texture)

Preparation:

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). Make sure it is well heated before placing the cake in, to allow for even baking and optimal rise.

2. In a large bowl, add diced margarine (or butter), sugar, salt, lemon zest, and vanilla sugar. Use an electric mixer to blend these ingredients until you achieve a smooth and fluffy cream. This step is essential as the air incorporated at this stage will help the cake rise and become fluffy.

3. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Ensure that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This will bring a uniform texture and prevent lumps.

4. In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This will help eliminate lumps and ensure even distribution of the leavening agent.

5. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the margarine mixture, alternating with milk if you choose to use it. Mix gently, just until the ingredients are combined, to avoid over-mixing.

6. Pour the mixture into a greased cake pan or lined with baking paper. Level the surface with a spatula to ensure even baking.

7. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 30 minutes to avoid the cake falling.

8. Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help maintain its fluffy texture.

Serving suggestion:
Serve the lemon cake plain or dusted with powdered sugar. You can also add a lemon glaze (mix powdered sugar with lemon juice) for added sweetness and an attractive look. This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.

Possible variations:
For an extra hint of flavor, you can add some poppy seeds or ground nuts to the mixture. You can also experiment with other citrus fruits, such as oranges or limes, to create unique versions of this delicious cake.

Practical tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a uniform mixture.
- Use fresh lemon zest, as the aroma is much more intense than dried lemon zest.
- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon essence to the mixture.

This lemon cake is not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to bring a touch of freshness to every meal, being a dessert that will surely become your favorite!

 Ingredients: 250 g margarine, 200 g sugar, a pinch of salt, grated zest of one lemon, 2 packets of vanilla sugar, 4 eggs, 250 g flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 50 ml milk. Glaze: 50 g margarine, 50 g powdered sugar, 50 ml lemon juice. I used store-bought cold white glaze.