This Lemon Almond Pudding Cake is a light and airy dessert that combines the bright flavors of lemon with the subtle nuttiness of almond. It’s a delightful pudding cake that separates into layers while baking, creating a creamy custard base and a light sponge top. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or afternoon treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and Refreshing: The lemon flavor provides a bright, refreshing taste that’s not too heavy.
- Unique Texture: The cake separates into two distinct layers, offering a creamy custard base and a light sponge top.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples, making it easy to prepare.
- Elegant and Easy: Impressive dessert that’s simple to make.
Ingredients
- Sugar: To sweeten the cake and create the custard layer.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cake.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors.
- Large Eggs (Separated): Creates the layers of the cake.
- Unsalted Butter (Melted): Adds richness and moisture.
- Milk: Contributes to the creamy texture.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides the bright lemon flavor.
- Finely Grated Lemon Zest: Intensifies the lemon aroma and taste.
- Almond Extract: Adds a subtle nutty flavor.
- Sliced Almonds: For topping, adds texture and visual appeal.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make the Lemon Almond Pudding Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Dry Ingredients
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick spray or brush with melted butter. In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and melted butter. Whisk in the milk, lemon juice, almond extract, and lemon zest until combined. Stir in the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Beat Egg Whites
Beat the egg whites in an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Fold Egg Whites into Batter
Gently fold the egg whites into the lemon mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pie plate. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until set. Top with sliced almonds and serve.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: They whip into stiff peaks more easily.
- Gently Fold Egg Whites: Avoid deflating the egg whites for a light and airy texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in a tough cake.
- Check for Doneness: The cake is done when a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
How to Serve
- Dessert: Serve as a light and refreshing dessert after any meal.
- Afternoon Tea: Pair with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Brunch: Offer as a sweet option during brunch.
- With Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or a fruit compote for added flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the cake.
Reheating
Reheating is generally not recommended, best served at room temperature or chilled.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used. However, the taste may not be as bright.
2. Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, whole milk or 2% milk can be used. The original recipe calls for skim milk, but using whole milk will add more richness.
3. Can I omit the almond extract?
Yes, if you don’t like almond extract, you can omit it. The lemon flavor will still be prominent.
4. How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when a tester inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is lightly golden. The edges should also be set.
PrintLemon Almond Pudding Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts, Cakes, Puddings
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/European
Description
This Lemon Almond Pudding Cake is a light and airy dessert with a delightful balance of tangy lemon and nutty almond flavors. Its unique texture, a cross between a cake and a pudding, makes it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Sliced almonds, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Liberally spray a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick cooking spray or brush with melted butter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients (Yolks): In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and melted butter. Whisk in milk, lemon juice, almond extract, and lemon zest until combined. Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Beat Egg Whites: In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Fold Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the lemon mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pie plate. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until set and lightly golden.
- Top and Serve: Top with sliced almonds and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of skim milk.
- Be gentle when folding the egg whites to maintain the airy texture.
- Ensure egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks for the cake to rise properly.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
- This cake is best served the same day it is made.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 150mg