Lemon Raisin Cake Recipes

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Lemon raisin cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that brings a bright citrus zing to the rich sweetness of raisins. This delightful cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a cozy afternoon tea. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet raisins creates a harmonious balance that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

  • For the Cake:
    • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 3 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • ½ cup buttermilk
    • Zest of 1 lemon
    • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
    • 1 cup raisins (dark or golden)
  • For the Lemon Glaze (optional):
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
    • Zest of ½ lemon

Method

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
  6. Add Lemon Flavor: Fold in the lemon zest and lemon juice, followed by the raisins. Make sure they are evenly distributed in the batter.
  7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Prepare the Glaze (Optional): In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with lemon juice and zest until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake for a refreshing lemon glaze.

Variations & Tips

  • Add Nuts: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
  • Use Different Dried Fruits: Try substituting raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or cherries for a different taste experience.
  • Make it Zesty: For an extra citrus punch, increase the amount of lemon zest and juice in the batter.
  • Serve with Whipped Cream: Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
  • Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Conclusion

Lemon raisin cake is a wonderful dessert that captures the essence of spring and summer with its bright flavors. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed up with a lemon glaze, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a slice of this delightful cake. Happy baking!

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