Greek Lemon Cake

Greek Lemon Cake

Greek Lemon Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly marries the vibrant essence of fresh lemons with the rich, comforting flavors of a classic cake. This cake is more than just a recipe; it evokes memories of sunny Mediterranean afternoons and family gatherings, bringing a slice of Greece right to your kitchen. Whether you’re indulging in a slice after dinner or enjoying it with a cup of tea, this cake is bound to uplift your spirits. With its buttery texture and zesty aroma, it’s easy to see why this cake is worth making. Follow this step-by-step recipe to capture that Mediterranean magic in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the many reasons to adore this Greek Lemon Cake is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dessert in under an hour. The prep is quick, making it an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties, picnics, and family dinners, and its refreshing lemon flavor is perfect for any occasion. Moreover, the versatility of this recipe means you can get creative by adjusting the sweetness or adding a citrus twist with other flavors. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, this lemon cake truly serves comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients

To make the Greek Lemon Cake, you’re going to need some simple yet delightful ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cake, providing a soft and fluffy texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: This adds just the right amount of sweetness, balancing the tangy lemon.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creamy and rich, it contributes to the cake’s moistness.
• 3 large eggs: Vital for structure and stability, while also enriching the flavor.
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: Adds a luscious creaminess and a subtle tartness that complements the lemon.
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice: This infuses the cake with a zesty flavor that’s refreshingly bright.
• Zest of 2 lemons: Elevates the lemon flavor by bringing out the essential oils and fragrance of the fruit.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and maintain its fluffy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness with just the right amount of seasoning.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a sweet, shiny finish that brings the cake to life.
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze): Adds tanginess and a beautiful glaze to the cake.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating the perfect environment for baking.

2. Prepare the pan: Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake slides out effortlessly after baking.

3. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, setting the stage for a perfectly balanced texture.

4. Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, forming a creamy base.

5. Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to allow for a smooth, cohesive batter. Then, stir in the Greek yogurt for an indulgent richness.

6. Mix in lemon: Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, ensuring a burst of zesty flavor permeates the batter.

7. Combine ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could impact the cake’s texture.

8. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool the cake: Once baked, cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool fully.

10. Prepare the glaze: For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and well-combined.

11. Glaze the cake: Drizzle the tangy glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak into the surface for an irresistible sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better integration into the batter.
• Lemon Variations: For a unique twist, consider adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds for texture or substituting some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for added depth.
• Taste as You Go: Feel free to adjust the sugar in the cake and glaze to match your personal taste preferences. Some may enjoy a slightly sweeter cake, while others prefer the tartness of lemon to shine.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This luscious Greek Lemon Cake pairs beautifully with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade. It’s the perfect dessert for family gatherings, birthday parties, or as a sweet indulgence after a delicious meal. Serve it with fresh berries for added color and complexity or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury.

Nutritional Information

Each slice of Greek Lemon Cake (about 1/12 of the cake) contains approximately 300 calories. It offers a good balance of carbohydrates and fats, thanks to the flour and butter. With its refreshing burst of lemon juice and yogurt, you’re also getting a dose of vitamin C and healthy probiotics.

Storing Tips & Variations

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply let it thaw at room temperature. For variations, you can experiment with flavors by adding almond or vanilla extract, or try incorporating other citrus fruits like orange or lime for a different twist on this classic recipe.

Conclusion

With its delectable flavor and simple preparation, the Greek Lemon Cake is a must-try recipe that you can easily incorporate into your baking repertoire. We encourage you to give it a go and share your baking experience! Your family and friends will surely appreciate the effort you put into this delightful dessert. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil for butter in this recipe. Use about 1/3 cup of olive oil to replace the 1/2 cup of butter.

2. Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! This cake stays moist for several days. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container.

3. How can I make the cake gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure to check if the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum.

4. What can I do if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt, sour cream, or even applesauce for a slight variation in flavor and texture.

5. Can I add frosting instead of glaze?
Certainly! If you prefer a more indulgent cake, feel free to add a cream cheese or buttercream frosting instead of the lemon glaze. The tanginess of the lemon pairs beautifully with a rich frosting, too!

Greek Lemon Cake

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• Author: noah-reed
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful dessert that combines fresh lemon flavors with a rich, buttery cake, evoking memories of sunny Mediterranean afternoons.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
5. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the Greek yogurt.
6. Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to the mixture.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully.
10. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled cake.

Notes

Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Feel free to adjust the sugar in the cake and glaze to match your personal taste preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg