Lemon Crème Fraîche Cake with Lemon Syrup

Lemon Crème Fraîche Cake with Lemon Syrup

Ingredients

For the Cake

• • Butter: 150 g (2/3 cup), softened
  • Salt: a pinch
  • Sugar: 150 g (3/4 cup)

• • Lemon Zest: from 2 lemons
  • Eggs: 3
  • Fluid Crème Fraîche: 150 ml (2/3 cup)

• Flour: 250 g (2 cups)
• Baking Powder: 11 g (approximately 2 1/4 tsp)

For the Lemon Syrup

• • Water: 2 tbsp

• Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp (from 1 lemon)
• Sugar: 2 tbsp

Directions

Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a pinch of salt until smooth.
   • Add the sugar and lemon zest, and mix until light and fluffy.
2. Add Eggs and Crème Fraîche:
   • • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   • Pour in the crème fraîche and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
   • • Sift in the flour and baking powder, then fold gently into the wet mixture until just combined.

Bake the Cake

4. Prepare the Pan and Bake:
   • • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
     • Grease a cake pan with butter and pour in the batter, spreading it evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Lemon Syrup

5. Make the Syrup:
   • • In a small saucepan, combine 2 tbsp of water, 2 tbsp of lemon juice, and 2 tbsp of sugar.
   • Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.

Finish and Serve

6. Add Syrup and Serve:
   • • While the cake is still warm, drizzle the lemon syrup over the top, allowing it to soak in for extra moisture and flavor.
   • Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• • Garnish with lemon slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
  • Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
  • Add fresh berries on the side for added color and flavor.

• Serve as a light dessert or a refreshing snack.

Cooking Tips

• • Use freshly grated lemon zest for the best flavor.
  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.

• • Be gentle when folding in the flour to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the syrup to taste by adding more or less sugar.
  • For extra lemon flavor, add a bit of lemon zest to the syrup.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Lemons: High in vitamin C and antioxidants.
  • Crème Fraîche: Adds calcium and a creamy texture.
  • Eggs: Provide protein and essential vitamins.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: Contains no meat or fish.
  • Nut-Free: Safe for those with nut allergies.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute crème fraîche and butter with dairy-free alternatives.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving Estimate)

• • Calories: ~250 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fat: 12 g

• Protein: 4 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Storage

• • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

• This cake also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.