The combination of rich butter flavour and tangy citron zest makes it a deliciously light yet indulgent cake. This recipe will guide you step by step to create a cake that will brighten up your day. It’s a perfect dessert for family gatherings or a simple treat with tea. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard loaf pan or a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent, which will give your butter cake a soft and fluffy texture. In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential to incorporate air, giving the cake its tender crumb. One at a time, beat in the eggs, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps the batter emulsify, leading to a smooth and even mixture.
Stir in the zest of 2 citrons (or lemons) and the fresh citron juice. The zest enhances the citrus flavour, while the juice adds a refreshing tang to balance the richness of the butter. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract. This complements the citron flavour with a warm undertone, rounding out the flavour profile. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. The cake should be golden and spring back when lightly pressed. While the cake is baking, prepare the citron glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, fresh citron juice, and melted butter. This glaze will enhance the cake’s citrus flavour and add a beautiful sheen. Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
While still warm, drizzle the citron glaze over the top, allowing it to soak into the cake. Let it cool completely before serving. This refreshing butter cake, weekend citron is an ideal treat for citrus lovers. With its buttery texture and vibrant citron notes, it pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny afternoon or sharing it with friends, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients;
- 1 ½ cups (190g/ 6.7 oz) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g/ 7 oz) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g/ 4 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/3 cup (80ml) whole milk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Zest of 2 citrons (or lemons)
- 1/4 cup fresh citron juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup (50 grams/ 1.3 oz) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh citron juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
