Why You’ll Love this Lemon Buttermilk Cake Recipe
If you’re looking for a cake that’s both invigorating and indulgent, you’ll love this Lemon Buttermilk Cake recipe.
The bright, zesty flavor of lemon combined with the rich, moist texture of buttermilk creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist. Each bite feels like a little celebration, whether you’re enjoying it at a special gathering or as a sweet treat for yourself.
Plus, the cake’s fluffy structure makes it perfect for pairing with ice cream, whipped cream, or a tangy lemon sauce.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving another slice!
Ingredients of Lemon Buttermilk Cake
If you’re gearing up to make the delightful Lemon Buttermilk Cake, you’ll want to gather all the right ingredients first. This cake is a wonderful mix of sweet and tart, thanks to the lemon, and the buttermilk keeps it nice and moist. It’s really a joy to make, and you’ll need some staple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s get started on what you’ll need for this zesty treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shortening
- 2 1/4 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
- 6 large eggs, separated
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons fine unseasoned breadcrumbs
Now, when it comes to these ingredients, there are a few tips to keep in mind. For example, using fresh lemon juice and zest will really amp up the flavor, making your cake taste like it came straight from a fancy bakery rather than your kitchen.
And if you’re wondering about the shortening, it helps create that tender crumb we all love in cake. But, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you could swap it out for unsalted butter. Just remember, butter will give a richer flavor but might change the texture a smidgen.
Also, make sure your eggs are at room temperature before you start mixing; it makes a world of difference when it comes to achieving those fluffy egg whites. Trust me, your cake will thank you later. Happy baking!
How to Make Lemon Buttermilk Cake
Making a Lemon Buttermilk Cake is a delightful journey that combines a few simple steps into a scrumptious result. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is essential because you want your cake to bake evenly and perfectly.
While the oven is warming up, grab a 10-inch tube pan. Butter it up really well, then dust the inside with 2 tablespoons of fine unseasoned breadcrumbs. This little trick helps your cake release easily from the pan after baking, so you don’t end up with a sad, stuck cake. Trust me, nobody wants that.
Now, let’s whip up some magic. Start by beating 6 large egg whites in a clean bowl until they’re frothy. Once frothy, add 3/4 cup of sugar and keep beating until those whites form stiff peaks. It’s like watching a cloud grow, and oh, the joy when you see it turn glossy and hold its shape.
While that’s happening, in another bowl, mix together 1 cup of shortening with 1 1/2 cups of sugar. Blend in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of grated lemon rind. The smell will have you dreaming of sunny days. Add the egg yolks into this mixture, blending until it’s smooth and creamy.
Now, let’s combine our dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, sift together 3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This is the moment when you can feel fancy, like you’re in a cooking show.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and 3/4 cup of buttermilk to the shortening mixture, mixing until just combined. And here comes the fun part—gently fold in those fluffy egg whites. This step is all about preserving the airiness that will make your cake light and delightful.
Spoon this beautiful batter into your prepared tube pan, and before you know it, it’s time to bake. Pop that pan into the oven and let it bake for about 75 minutes. You can tell your cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once it’s done, let it set for 8-10 minutes in the pan before flipping it out to cool for another 15 minutes. This cake pairs wonderfully with ice cream or whipped cream, and you might just want to keep a slice (or two) for yourself. Happy baking!
Lemon Buttermilk Cake Substitutions & Variations
While lemon buttermilk cake is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
You can swap the buttermilk for yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if you’re lactose intolerant. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
If you’re looking for a twist, try adding poppy seeds or blueberries. You can also reduce the sugar for a less sweet cake or substitute it with coconut sugar.
Experimenting with different citrus, like orange or lime, can add a delightful twist.
Whatever you choose, have fun making it your own!
What to Serve with Lemon Buttermilk Cake
When I’m enjoying a slice of lemon buttermilk cake, I love to pair it with ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that perfect balance of flavors. The creaminess complements the cake’s zesty notes beautifully.
Sometimes, I’ll add fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries to enhance the fruity tang. If I’m feeling adventurous, a drizzle of lemon sauce can elevate the dessert even further.
For a more refined touch, I might serve it with a cup of herbal tea or a light white wine, allowing the cake’s citrusy goodness to truly shine. It’s all about finding what you love!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing lemon buttermilk cake with ice cream or whipped cream is a delightful choice, but there are some additional tips to enhance your baking experience.
Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Sifting the dry ingredients helps create a lighter cake. If you want a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding extra lemon zest or a splash of lemon extract.
Always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time, as ovens can vary. Finally, let the cake cool completely before slicing for cleaner pieces.
Enjoy your baking adventure!