Learn how to make lemon meringue cake from scratch! This easy, step-by-step recipe creates a light, fluffy cake with tangy lemon curd and sweet meringue. Perfect for any occasion!
How to make lemon meringue cake
Introduction: The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart
If you’ve ever wondered how to make lemon meringue cake, you’re in for a treat! This dessert is a showstopper, with soft, fluffy layers of cake, a luscious lemon curd filling, and a cloud-like meringue topping. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress.
Let’s dive into the process — step by step!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
For the Lemon Curd Filling:
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
For the Meringue Topping:
• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
• Combine Everything: Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
• Bake: Divide the batter between the pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let them cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Curd
Making your own lemon curd adds so much fresh flavor!
• Whisk Ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and zest.
• Cook Gently: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 7-10 minutes).
• Add Butter: Remove from heat, add butter, and stir until smooth. Chill in the fridge.
Step 3: Whip the Meringue
The fluffy meringue is what makes this cake truly special.
• Beat the Egg Whites: In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites until frothy.
• Add Sugar and Cream of Tartar: Gradually add sugar and cream of tartar, beating until stiff peaks form.
• Finish with Vanilla: Fold in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Assemble Your Lemon Meringue Cake
Now comes the fun part — putting it all together!
• Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of lemon curd on top.
• Add the Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top.
• Top with Meringue: Spread the meringue over the top and sides of the cake, creating decorative swirls.
Step 5: Toast the Meringue
For that classic golden finish:
• Use a Torch: Lightly toast the meringue with a kitchen torch until golden brown.
• Or Broil: Alternatively, place the cake under a broiler for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning!
Tips for the Best Lemon Meringue Cake
• Room Temperature Eggs: This helps achieve a smoother batter and fluffier meringue.
• Fresh Lemons: Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
• Serve Fresh: Lemon meringue cake is best enjoyed the same day for the crispiest meringue.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Learning how to make lemon meringue cake is easier than you think, and the result is absolutely worth it. The light, airy cake, paired with zesty lemon curd and sweet, toasted meringue, creates a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this homemade cake will quickly become a favorite.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Dessert
Now that you know how to make lemon meringue cake, why not try it out this weekend? The process is fun, rewarding, and results in a dessert that looks like it came from a bakery.
Let me know if you give this recipe a shot — I’d love to hear how it turns out!
Leave a Reply