Nothing quite says elegance and charm like a citrus-infused dessert to enjoy on a cozy afternoon or to impress guests at a gathering. Ina Garten, known for her delightful recipes, has perfected a Lemon Cake that is both light and satisfying. This recipe combines the zesty freshness of lemons with the sweetness of a moist cake, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this Ina Garten Lemon Cake recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
**Ina Garten Lemon Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/3 cup grated lemon zest (6-8 lemons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3/4 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch bundt pan.
2. Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. In another bowl, combine the lemon juice, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
6. Beginning and ending with the flour mixture, alternate adding the dry ingredients and wet ingredients to the butter mixture, beating until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple lemon glaze for an extra touch.
This Ina Garten Lemon Cake is best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat any time of day. The vibrant lemon flavor combined with the moist cake will surely brighten your day and impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is a must-try for all lemon cake lovers out there. Make sure to savor each bite of this delightful creation that embodies the essence of the perfect balance between tart and sweet flavors.
