Are you dreaming of a vibrant, zesty dessert that's both easy to make and utterly delicious? Then look no further! This lemon and lime cake recipe is your answer. It's a delightful fusion of tangy citrus flavors, a moist crumb, and a light, fluffy texture that will make it a favorite for all occasions. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is perfect for you. Get ready to experience a taste of sunshine in every bite! This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, especially if you're looking for homemade cooking that’s both delicious and easy.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- Zest of 2 limes and 2 lemons
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake releases easily.
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Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even leavening throughout the cake.
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Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. A stand mixer or hand mixer works best for this step, creating a smooth and airy base.
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Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Citrus Zest & Juice: Stir in the lime and lemon zest and juices. This is where the bright citrus flavor really shines.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
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Make the Glaze: While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, lime juice, and lemon juice until smooth. Add more juice for a thinner consistency, as needed.
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Glaze & Serve: Once the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides. Slice and serve. Enjoy this delightful easy recipe!
Tips for the Best Lemon and Lime Cake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs ensures proper emulsification and a lighter cake.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Fresh Citrus is Best: Using fresh lime and lemon zest and juice will significantly enhance the flavor of the cake.
Variations:
- Add Berries: Fold in ½ cup of fresh raspberries or blueberries to the batter for an extra burst of flavor and color.
- Make it a Bundt Cake: This recipe can also be baked in a bundt pan for a beautiful presentation. Adjust baking time as needed.
- Citrus Curd Filling: For an extra decadent treat, add a layer of homemade lemon or lime curd between two cake layers.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size. It's always recommended to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This lemon and lime cake is a perfect addition to any gathering or a delightful treat for a quiet evening at home. It’s a simple recipe that yields exceptional results, making it a true winner among food recipes and the best recipes for both beginners and experts alike. Enjoy!