Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Cake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Warm Lemon Pudding
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Add Water: Gradually whisk in the water and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Add Lemon: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter.
- Thicken Pudding: In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly whisk in a small amount of the hot lemon mixture into the egg yolks, then return the yolk mixture to the saucepan. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens.
Step 3: Serve
- Plate Cake: Slice the cooled lemon cake and place it on serving plates.
- Add Pudding: Spoon warm lemon pudding over the cake or serve it on the side.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of lemon cake and warm pudding!
Tips for Success
- Zest Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, use fresh lemons for zest and juice.
- Serve Warm: The pudding is best served warm, so prepare it just before serving.
- Add Whipped Cream: Consider topping with whipped cream for an extra treat!
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Cake with Warm Lemon Pudding is a refreshing dessert that brings sunshine to your table. The combination of zesty lemon flavors and creamy pudding makes it a perfect choice for spring and summer gatherings or whenever you’re in the mood for a bright, citrusy treat! Enjoy!