Lemon cake

Traditional desserts for carolers: Layered Cake with Lemon Cream

When it comes to holidays, there’s nothing more delightful than welcoming your carolers with special treats. The layered cake with lemon cream is a perfect choice, not only for its refined taste but also for its crispy and creamy texture. This recipe combines tradition with a touch of elegance, making it ideal for pampering guests during festive evenings. In the following, I will explain step by step how to prepare this delicacy, providing you with useful tips and tricks that will help you achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the layers:
- 250 g wheat flour (preferably type 650, for a finer texture)
- 80 g butter (preferably at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 60 g sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk (you can also use plant-based milk, such as almond milk for a lighter version)
- 1 egg (make sure it is fresh)
- 1 teaspoon ammonium (this will help achieve a fluffy texture)

For the cream:
- 200 g butter (preferably of good quality)
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 3 tablespoons of flour

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the layers

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and ammonium.
2. Add the diced butter and knead with your fingertips until you obtain a sandy texture.
3. In another container, beat the egg with the milk, then add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Knead until you obtain an elastic dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
4. Divide the dough into three equal balls. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rest for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Baking the layers

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a baking tray with oil or butter.
2. On a floured surface, roll out each ball of dough into a thin layer.
3. Place the layers in the inverted tray (this way, you will get a cake with a nice appearance) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden.

Step 3: Preparing the cream

1. In a saucepan, mix the 3 tablespoons of flour with 250 ml of water (or milk) until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. Once it reaches the desired consistency, remove from heat and let it cool.
2. In a bowl, beat the butter with the powdered sugar until fluffy. Add the grated lemon zest and lemon juice, continuing to mix.
3. Once the flour mixture has cooled, gently incorporate it into the butter cream.

Step 4: Assembling the cake

1. Place the first baked layer on a platter and spread half of the lemon cream on top.
2. Place the second layer on top, continue with the remaining cream, then place the last layer.
3. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance and a sweet-sour taste.

Practical tips:
- Choose quality ingredients, especially the butter and lemon, as they will significantly influence the final taste of the cake.
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can infuse the cream with a few drops of vanilla essence or add pieces of candied lemon.
- This cake goes wonderfully with black tea or freshly made lemonade.

Nutritional benefits:
The layered cake with lemon cream is a source of energy due to the butter and sugar content, but lemon brings an important supply of vitamin C, having a refreshing and energizing effect. It is ideal as a dessert but can also be enjoyed at breakfast, alongside a cup of tea.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of sweetener?
Sure! You can use honey or coconut sugar for a healthier version.
2. How can I store the cake?
It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for a few days.
3. Is it possible to freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake, but it’s best to slice it before placing it in the freezer.

In conclusion, the layered cake with lemon cream is a dessert that will bring joy and flavor to any festive moment. Try this recipe and enjoy every bite with your loved ones. Perhaps, along the way, you will discover your own variations and tricks, turning this recipe into a unique one that becomes part of your culinary traditions. Enjoy your meal!