Description
Bright, zesty, and irresistibly creamy—Italian Grandma’s Lemon Custard Cake is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. With a buttery, tender crust and a luscious lemon-infused custard center, this dessert is a timeless family treasure passed down for generations. Whether you’re looking for easy dessert ideas, quick breakfast treats, or delightful options for tea time, this easy recipe hits the sweet spot every time. It’s one of those food ideas that looks impressive but requires surprisingly little effort. Perfect for both dinner ideas and brunch occasions, this cake is a must-try for anyone who loves citrus or classic European bakes.
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3 large eggs
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform or tart pan and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, 1/4 cup of the sugar, and salt. Add cubed butter and work it into the flour until the texture is crumbly.
3. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan evenly and bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden around the edges. Let it cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and remaining 1/2 cup of sugar until pale and smooth.
5. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Gradually whisk in the milk until fully combined.
6. Pour the custard over the cooled crust and carefully return to the oven. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the custard is just set and lightly golden around the edges.
7. Let the cake cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
8. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving for a classic finish.
Notes
Be sure to use fresh lemons—both juice and zest—for the brightest flavor.
Don’t skip chilling the cake; it sets the custard and enhances texture.
For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between cuts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 60
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 90
Keywords: lemon dessert, custard cake, Italian cake, easy recipe, quick breakfast