Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why You’ll Love This Lemon Custard Cake
- The Secret to a Perfect Custard Layer
- How to Achieve the Best Texture
- Creative Ways to Serve Your Lemon Custard Cake
- Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Storing and Reheating Your Cake
Key Takeaways
This Lemon Custard Cake from Betty Cooks is a delightful balance of fluffy sponge and creamy custard. It’s simple to make, using everyday ingredients, and delivers an irresistible citrus flavor. Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Custard Cake
If you love citrus desserts, this lemon custard cake will become your new favorite! It’s a melt-in-your-mouth treat that perfectly combines a tangy lemon flavor with a smooth custard layer. The best part? It practically bakes itself into layers, creating a beautiful presentation with minimal effort. Plus, the fresh lemon zest gives it an extra burst of citrus goodness.

The Secret to a Perfect Custard Layer
The magic of this dessert is how it naturally separates into two textures during baking. The key to achieving the perfect custard layer is gently folding in the beaten egg whites. This step ensures a light and airy top while allowing the custard to settle underneath. Using lukewarm milk also helps the batter combine smoothly for a consistent texture.

How to Achieve the Best Texture
A successful lemon custard cake relies on precise mixing techniques. Overmixing can result in a dense cake, so always fold ingredients gently. Additionally, baking at the right temperature—325°F (160°C)—allows the custard to set perfectly without overcooking. If you’re unsure, a gentle jiggle in the center should confirm that the custard is just right.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Lemon Custard Cake
Enjoying this lemon custard cake fresh out of the oven is a treat, but there are many ways to elevate its presentation! Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh berries for a vibrant contrast. A dollop of whipped cream adds extra indulgence, while a drizzle of honey brings out its natural sweetness. For a fancy touch, pair it with a citrus-infused syrup.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even the best bakers can run into a few hiccups with this recipe. One common mistake is overbaking, which can cause the custard to become too firm. To prevent this, check for a slight wobble before removing it from the oven. Another issue is deflating the batter by mixing too aggressively—always fold gently for the best texture.
Storing and Reheating Your Cake
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy it warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This will restore the creamy texture and enhance the fresh lemon flavor. Avoid heating it too long, as custard can become rubbery if overheated.


Lemon Custard Cake – A Creamy & Zesty Dessert
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups milk, lukewarm
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Gradually add flour and mix well. Slowly incorporate the lukewarm milk while stirring until combined.
- Gently fold in the beaten egg whites until just mixed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Let the cake cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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