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Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake

There’s something undeniably refreshing about the bright tang of lemon combined with the sweet tartness of raspberries, and this Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake brings that experience to life in every delicious bite. This delightful cake not only dazzles with its flavors but also makes for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday party, an afternoon tea, or a festive holiday celebration, this cake is sure to impress both your guests and your taste buds.

Why Make This Recipe

The combination of zesty lemon and sweet raspberry creates a flavor profile that’s irresistible.
It features a luscious layer of lemon curd, adding a unique texture and richness.
Perfect for any occasion, this cake is both beautiful and delicious, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake

Crafting this Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake is easier than you might think! Follow these steps to create a delightful dessert that will not only taste heavenly but will also look gorgeous on your dessert table.

Ingredients

Before you get your hands doughy, let’s gather what we need:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
Zest of 2 lemons
3 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
¾ cup raspberry jam or compote
½ cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
½ cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp raspberry juice (from mashed raspberries or use raspberry syrup)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper. This ensures that your cake comes out easily and retains its shape.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This is crucial for creating a light cake texture.
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter-sugar mixture, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavors further.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly blended and ready for incorporation into the wet mixture.
Gradually alternate adding your dry mixture and the buttermilk and fresh lemon juice into the butter mixture, beginning with the dry ingredients and ending with the dry as well. Mix until just combined and avoid overmixing which can lead to a dense cake.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Gently smooth out the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a tantalizing aroma.
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool fully. Skipping this step could cause your cakes to break apart.
After the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half the lemon curd followed by half of the raspberry jam or compote on top of the first layer. Then carefully place the second cake layer on top, repeating the curd and jam layering process.
For the raspberry drizzle, mash the fresh raspberries and strain the juice if desired. Mix the raspberry juice with powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth drizzle consistency. Pour the drizzle over the assembled cake, allowing it to run down the sides for that beautiful aesthetic.
Finally, top your gorgeous cake with extra fresh raspberries for a stunning visual and an added burst of flavor.

Storing Leftover Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake

To enjoy this delightful cake even after your gathering, proper storage is crucial. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate: If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days at 40°F. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.
Freeze: For longer preservation, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable bag, or use an airtight container. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its delightful flavor.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, move the slices from the freezer to the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the cake.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake

How you choose to serve your Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake can elevate its presentation and taste experience. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Pair with Tea: This cake is an excellent companion for your afternoon tea. The refreshing lemon and raspberry flavors complement both black and herbal teas beautifully.
Garnish with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top can add creaminess to each bite, balancing the cake’s tartness.
Serve with a Scoop of Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, consider pairing your cake with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet. The cold ice cream juxtaposes perfectly with the warm flavors of the cake.
Add Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnishing with sprigs of fresh mint can not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a fresh, herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the sweet-tart flavors.

Tips to Make Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake

Creating the perfect Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake can be easy with these helpful suggestions:

Ensure Ingredients are at Room Temperature: Take your eggs and buttermilk out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before starting the recipe. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, resulting in a smoother, fluffier batter.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing your batter just until combined helps maintain a light texture. Overmixing can activate gluten in the flour, leading to a denser cake.
Make Your Own Lemon Curd: Homemade lemon curd is straightforward to make and can be more flavorful than store-bought varieties. It can also add a personal touch to your cake.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these alternatives:

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This adaptation can cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
Berry Bliss: Instead of raspberries, you could use strawberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile and visual appeal. Each berry brings its own unique sweetness and character to the cake.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers one or two days in advance. Just store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature until you are ready to assemble. Finish with the drizzle and garnish just before serving for the freshest look.

Q: Can I use store-bought cake mixes?
A: While you can use store-bought cake mixes to save time, the unique blend of flavors from this homemade recipe truly elevates the cake. Adding fresh lemon and raspberry elements enhances the taste.

Q: How can I make the raspberries sweeter?

If your raspberries aren’t sweet enough, consider adding a touch of honey or sugar to your raspberry sauce.
You could also mix the fresh raspberries with a bit of sugar and let them macerate for 30 minutes before adding them to the cake.

Q: Can I top the cake with a cream cheese frosting?
A: Yes! A tangy cream cheese frosting can pair wonderfully with the cake, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor to balance the tartness of the lemon and raspberry.

Creating the Lemon Curd & Raspberry Drizzle Cake isn’t just about making a dessert — it’s about bringing brightness and joy to your dining table. With its vibrant flavors, simple preparation, and undeniable beauty, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home, perfect for sharing with friends and family during any occasion. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start baking your way to a delightful culinary masterpiece.