Lemon Custard Cakes

Prep: 20 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Lemon Custard Cakes offer a delicate, zesty flavor with a silky texture, perfect for light dessert lovers and citrus enthusiasts seeking a refreshing treat.

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Ingredients

  • oil spray for ramekins
  • 3 large eggs (separated)
  • 1 1/2 c. low-fat (1%) milk
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 c. sugar
  • 1/4 c. flour
  • 5 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp. freshly grated lemon zest
  • confectioners sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Coat six 6-ounce ramekins with oil spray.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks and milk until combined.
  3. In a bowl with an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until well combined.
  4. Beat in flour, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
  5. Add the egg yolk mixture to the butter mixture and beat well.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, separate the eggs while they are cold, then let the yolks come to room temperature. You can substitute the low-fat milk with almond milk for a dairy-free version. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using whole milk. To enhance the lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest and juice to taste. Be sure to whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form for a light and airy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the lemon custard cakes warm, dusted with confectioners' sugar for a beautiful presentation. They pair beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful brunch option, serve alongside Swiss Biscuits or a light salad. These custard cakes also make a wonderful dessert after a hearty meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the ramekins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds, but this may affect the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemon Custard Cakes contains roughly 359 calories, with 2g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 25g fat.

359 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 24.7g 32% DV
Carbs 32.8g 12% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 13.1g 26% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 46.3mg 2% DV
Potassium 100.7mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 11.5mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8.1mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.3mg
Calcium 15.4mg 1% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before pouring it into the ramekins for baking. However, it’s best to bake them fresh for optimal texture.

What can I do if my cakes don't rise?

If your lemon custard cakes don't rise, it might be due to under-whipping the egg whites. Ensure you beat them until they form stiff peaks, which helps create a light and airy texture. Also, avoid overmixing when folding the egg whites into the batter.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh lemon juice and zest will provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor that enhances the overall taste of the custard cakes. For the best results, opt for fresh lemons when possible.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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