Arizona Lemon Cake

Arizona Lemon Cake Recipe - A Delicious Dessert from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 50-55 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

The Arizona Lemon Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your palate. This cake, with its moist texture and tangy lemon glaze, is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a more formal event. The combination of lemon and poppy seeds not only adds a unique flavor but also an interesting texture to the cake. This recipe is designed to guide you through creating this delicious cake, ensuring a perfect result every time.

History

The Arizona Lemon Cake has its roots in the American Southwest, where citrus fruits, particularly lemons, are abundant. The recipe has evolved over the years, incorporating local ingredients and preferences. Initially, it was a simple lemon-flavored cake, but over time, poppy seeds were added to give it a distinctive taste and texture. The cake has become a favorite in many households, cherished for its refreshing flavor and its ability to pair well with a variety of dishes and occasions.

Ingredients

1.5 cup granulated sugar
0.5 cup butter, softened
3 eggs
2.5 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
0.25 cup poppy seed
2 tbsp grated lemon peel
2 tbsp lemon juice

Lemon Glaze

2 cup confectioners' sugar
0.25 cup butter, melted
2 tbsp grated lemon peel
0.25 cup lemon juice
Mix all ingredients.

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a Bundt cake pan or tube pan.
In a large bowl, beat the sugar and butter on medium speed of an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Beat the flour mixture into the sugar mixture alternately with buttermilk until well blended.
Stir in the poppy seeds, lemon peel, and lemon juice. Spread the batter in the prepared pan.
Bake until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 50 to 55 minutes.
Immediately poke holes in the top of the cake with a long-tined fork.
Pour about two-thirds of the lemon glaze over the top. Let the cake cool for 20 minutes.
Invert the cake onto a serving plate. Remove the pan and spread the remaining glaze over the cake.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding blueberries to the batter for a lemon-blueberry cake. Alternatively, replace the poppy seeds with chopped nuts for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Arizona Lemon Cake turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh lemons for the zest and juice to get the best flavor.

- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

- When mixing the batter, do not overmix as this can lead to a dense cake.

- To prevent the cake from sticking, thoroughly grease and flour your Bundt pan.

- Allow the cake to cool slightly before applying the glaze so it doesn't soak in too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Arizona Lemon Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement its tangy flavor. A cup of hot tea or a cold glass of milk also pairs wonderfully with this cake.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the creaming method, where sugar and butter are beaten until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.

Ingredient Substitutions

If buttermilk is not available, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Make Ahead Tips

The cake can be baked a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap once cooled to maintain its moisture. Apply the glaze before serving.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, garnish the glazed cake with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add a touch of sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

This cake pairs beautifully with a light, fruity wine such as a Riesling or a sparkling Prosecco, enhancing its citrus flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If refrigerated, let it come to room temperature before serving. This cake is best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Arizona Lemon Cake contains approximately 400 calories. The calories are mainly from the carbohydrates (sugars and flour) and fats (butter).

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Arizona Lemon Cake contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the granulated sugar and all-purpose flour, which provide the cake's structure and sweetness.

Fats

This cake contains about 15 grams of fat per serving. The fats come from the butter used in both the cake and the glaze, contributing to the cake's moistness and rich flavor.

Proteins

The Arizona Lemon Cake provides about 5 grams of protein per serving. The proteins are primarily derived from the eggs, which also help to bind the ingredients together and give the cake structure.

Vitamins and minerals

Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, and this cake, with its generous use of lemon juice and zest, provides a decent amount of this essential vitamin. Additionally, the eggs and buttermilk contribute calcium and vitamin D.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are eggs, dairy (butter and buttermilk), and gluten (all-purpose flour). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

The Arizona Lemon Cake is a delicious dessert that offers a good balance of flavors and textures. While it is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, it also provides proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it a delightful treat for special occasions.

Summary

The Arizona Lemon Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemons with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress their guests with a cake that is both delicious and visually appealing. With its rich history and versatile serving options, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was a warm summer day in Arizona, the sun beating down on me as I rummaged through an old box of cookbooks at a yard sale. I've always had a passion for cooking, and my collection of recipes is vast and varied. But when I stumbled upon a weathered, yellowed piece of paper tucked away in the bottom of the box, I knew I had found something special.

The recipe was for Arizona Lemon Cake, a dessert that I had never heard of before. Intrigued, I carefully unfolded the paper and read through the ingredients and instructions. The simplicity of the recipe belied the complexity of the flavors it promised to deliver. I could almost taste the tangy lemon and sweet cake melting in my mouth just from reading the instructions.

As I walked back to my car, clutching the recipe in my hand, I couldn't wait to try it out. I had always enjoyed experimenting with new recipes and putting my own spin on them, and I knew that Arizona Lemon Cake would be no exception. I could already envision the delighted look on my family's faces as they took their first bite of this delicious dessert.

Once I arrived home, I wasted no time in getting started on the recipe. I gathered all the necessary ingredients, measuring out each one with precision. As I mixed the batter together, the scent of fresh lemons filled my kitchen, lifting my spirits and energizing me even more.

The cake baked to perfection in the oven, filling the house with a mouth-watering aroma that made my stomach growl in anticipation. As I pulled the cake out of the oven and let it cool, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste of the lemon glaze that I had prepared to drizzle over the top. The zesty, citrusy flavor danced on my taste buds, promising a dessert that would be nothing short of spectacular.

Finally, it was time to serve the Arizona Lemon Cake to my family. I watched as their eyes lit up with excitement when they saw the dessert on the table, a golden cake topped with a glistening layer of lemon glaze. I couldn't help but smile as they each took a bite, savoring the flavors and textures of the cake.

The cake was a hit, disappearing within minutes as my family clamored for seconds. I knew then that I had stumbled upon a truly special recipe, one that would become a staple in my collection for years to come. And as I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the joy and satisfaction that came from baking the perfect Arizona Lemon Cake, I knew that I had found a treasure that would endure for generations to come.

That day at the yard sale, when I found the recipe for Arizona Lemon Cake, was a turning point in my culinary journey. It opened up a world of new flavors and possibilities, inspiring me to continue exploring and experimenting in the kitchen. And as I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day, I am grateful for the serendipitous discovery that brought this delicious dessert into my life. The Arizona Lemon Cake will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of chance and the joy of creating something truly wonderful.