Lemon cake with glaze

Lemon Cake with Glaze: An Explosion of Freshness and Sweetness

If you are looking for a quick and delicious dessert that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, you have come to the right place! The lemon cake recipe with glaze that I will share with you is not only easy to make but also full of flavor and freshness. It can be served on any occasion, whether it's an anniversary, a party with friends, or simply to treat the family on an ordinary day.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients for the cake:
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 150 g sugar
- 200 g flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 eggs (medium)
- Zest of one large lemon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 50 ml lemon juice
- 10-20 g butter for greasing the pan

Ingredients for the glaze:
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons lemon juice
- A few lemon slices for decoration
- Green coconut (optional, for an exotic look)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a more homogeneous mixture. Arrange all ingredients on your work surface to avoid wasting time looking for them later.

2. Mixing butter and sugar: In a large bowl, mix the soft butter with the sugar until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. This step is essential as the air incorporated at this stage will make the cake fluffier.

3. Adding the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will ensure an even integration of the eggs into the mixture. Don't forget to stop mixing to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula so that no ingredients remain unmixed.

4. Mixing dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. This will help with an even distribution of the leavening agent in the batter.

5. Adding flavors: Add the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the butter and sugar mixture. These ingredients will add an intense and fresh flavor to your cake.

6. Combining ingredients: Start incorporating the flour mixture into the wet mixture, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be gentle to avoid over-activating the gluten in the flour, which could make the cake dense.

7. Preparing the pan: Choose a special pan you want to use. Grease the pan well with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper cut to fit the size of the pan. This will facilitate removing the cake after baking.

8. Baking the cake: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test. Try not to open the oven door in the first 20 minutes, or the cake may not rise evenly.

9. Cooling the cake: After the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Preparing the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of lemon juice. Mix well until you achieve a smooth glaze. If you want a thinner glaze, add a little more lemon juice.

11. Glazing the cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the glaze over it and spread it evenly. Decorate with lemon slices and, if desired, sprinkle a little green coconut for an exotic look.

12. Serving: Let the glaze set slightly before cutting the cake. This lemon cake pairs perfectly with a cup of green tea or a refreshing lemonade, bringing a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.

Useful tips:
- If you want to enhance the lemon flavor, you can also add a few drops of lemon essential oil to the mixture. Make sure it is food-grade oil meant for consumption.
- The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3 days, but it is best enjoyed on the day it is made.
- For a healthier version, you can replace some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This lemon cake has about 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the portion sizes and ingredients used. Lemon is an excellent source of vitamin C, contributing to strengthening the immune system. Additionally, the healthy fats from butter provide necessary energy for an active day.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace butter with oil?
Yes, you can use sunflower or coconut oil, but the texture will be different.

2. What can I use instead of lemon?
You can experiment with oranges or limes for a different taste, but adjust the sugar amounts according to their acidity.

3. How can I make the cake gluten-free?
Replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or oat flour, keeping in mind that the result may vary.

This lemon cake with glaze is a simple and delicious recipe that will bring a touch of sunshine to any day. Whether you choose to enjoy it alone or share it with loved ones, I am sure it will be a hit. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 100 g butter, 150 g sugar, 200 g flour, 1 teaspoon vanilla essence, 4 eggs, grated zest of a large lemon, 1 pinch of baking powder, 50 ml lemon juice, 10-20 g butter for the tray. Glaze: 100 g powdered sugar, 2-4 tablespoons lemon juice, a few lemon slices, green coconut.