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Magic Lemon Custard Cake

★★★★

4 from 4 reviews

Magic Lemon Custard Cake is an easy-to-make, irresistibly lemony dessert with a unique texture that forms three layers when baked: a light and fluffy top, a rich creamy middle, and a solid custard base. It is rich, creamy, tart, and melts in your mouth like magic.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled (1 stick)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (from about 2 large lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest (from about 2 large lemons)
  • 1 3/4 cups whole milk, room temperature
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a stand mixer or using a handheld beater, whisk the eggs and cream of tartar (if using) on high speed until frothy and lightened in color.
  3. Gradually add sugar and salt, continuing to whisk until the mixture is thick and pale.
  4. Slowly add the melted butter and vanilla, mixing until combined.
  5. Sift the flour over the mixture and fold gently to combine.
  6. Add lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing gently.
  7. Slowly pour in the whole milk and fold until the batter is smooth and uniform.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the center jiggles slightly when moved.
  9. Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  10. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving, optionally garnish with lemon slices.

Notes

For best texture and flavor, chill the cake overnight before serving. The three distinct layers form naturally during baking, creating a unique custard-like experience. Use room temperature ingredients to ensure proper mixing and texture.

  • Author: Sophie Lane
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Method: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg