When I first stumbled upon the East 62nd Street Lemon Cake recipe, I was instantly intrigued. The name alone evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth. It reminds me of sunny afternoons spent with friends, sharing stories over slices of this delightful cake. This lemon cake has a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to share its charm with you.
The Allure of East 62nd Street Lemon Cake
What makes the East 62nd Street Lemon Cake so special? It’s the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a moist texture that keeps you coming back for more. The cake is infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, giving it a refreshing flavor that brightens up any occasion.
Ingredients for East 62nd Street Lemon Cake
To make this delightful cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lemon Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
How to Make East 62nd Street Lemon Cake
Baking this cake is a straightforward process. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of lemon filled my kitchen, making my mouth water.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for an even bake.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will ensure that your cake doesn’t stick and comes out beautifully.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. The texture should be creamy and pale.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Step 7: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Making the Lemon Glaze
While the cake is baking, you can prepare the lemon glaze. This glaze adds a delightful sweetness and a burst of lemon flavor.
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 2: Drizzle on Warm Cake
Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm cake. This allows the glaze to soak in, creating a deliciously moist topping.
Serving East 62nd Street Lemon Cake
The East 62nd Street Lemon Cake is perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a birthday party, a picnic, or just a casual afternoon treat, it always impresses.
Pairing with Beverages
I love to serve this cake with a cup of tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade. The flavors complement each other beautifully and create a delightful experience.
Garnishing Ideas
For an extra touch, consider garnishing the cake with fresh berries or a sprig of mint. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the presentation.
Storing East 62nd Street Lemon Cake
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), storing them properly is essential.
Refrigerating the Cake
Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days.
Freezing Options
To freeze the cake, slice it into portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a piece of lemon cake whenever the craving strikes.
Variations of East 62nd Street Lemon Cake
While the classic East 62nd Street Lemon Cake is delightful, there are variations you can try for a fun twist.
Lemon Blueberry Cake
Add fresh blueberries to the batter for a burst of flavor and color. The combination of lemon and blueberries is simply divine.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cake
Incorporate poppy seeds for a delightful crunch. This adds texture and a unique flavor profile.
Why I Love East 62nd Street Lemon Cake
The East 62nd Street Lemon Cake holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of family gatherings and sunny days spent outdoors.
Memories Attached
I recall baking this cake for my best friend’s birthday. The joy on her face when she took the first bite was priceless. It’s moments like these that make baking so rewarding.
A Recipe to Share
This cake is not just about flavor; it’s about sharing love and joy with others. I encourage you to make it for someone special and create your own memories.
The East 62nd Street Lemon Cake is a timeless recipe that brings smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. Its simple ingredients and delightful flavor make it a must-try for any home baker. I hope you enjoy making this cake as much as I do. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, I guarantee it will be a hit.