Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake Recipe

Introduction

Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a soft, custardy texture with a bright lemon flavor. This simple yet elegant cake is perfect for any occasion and brings a taste of traditional Italian home baking to your table.

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup sugar
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
2. Step 2: Add the lemon zest and milk to the egg mixture, stirring to combine evenly.
3. Step 3: Gradually sift in the flour while gently folding it into the batter to avoid lumps.
4. Step 4: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined cake pan.
5. Step 5: Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the cake is set but still custardy in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs.
6. Step 6: Remove from oven and let cool before serving to enjoy the full custard texture.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra lemony punch, add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the batter.
• Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a simple decoration.
• Use almond flour to replace half the all-purpose flour for a nutty twist.
• Serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer it warm, but it also tastes great served chilled.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, whole milk is recommended for the best texture, but you can substitute with 2% milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind the flavor and custard texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when it feels set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs rather than wet batter. This ensures the custard stays soft without being raw.

Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake Recipe

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4.9 from 128 reviews

Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake is a simple, comforting dessert that combines the bright zestiness of lemon with a soft, custard-like texture. This traditional cake is moist and slightly tangy, perfect for a light dessert or afternoon treat.

• Author: Elias
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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For the Cake Batter

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly frothy. Add the lemon zest and milk, stirring gently to combine. Gradually sift in the flour, folding it into the wet ingredients until a smooth batter forms with no lumps.
2. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan. Bake the cake in the center of the oven for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly golden, and the center has a custardy texture when tested with a toothpick—it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
3. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool to room temperature in the pan, then gently remove it. This cake can be served as is or dusted with powdered sugar. It is best enjoyed the same day or the following day for optimal custard texture.

Notes

• The lemon zest is essential for the bright citrus flavor; use organic lemons if possible.
• Do not overbake as the cake is meant to have a custard-like, soft center.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
• You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving for extra sweetness and presentation.
• This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Keywords: Italian lemon cake, custard cake, lemon dessert, traditional Italian cake, easy baking recipe