Full Breakdown
Lemon Curd Layer Cake: A Perfect Mother's Day Treat
3/6/2026, 1:14:16 PM
Recipe Overview
The Lemon Curd Layer Cake is designed to be a simple yet celebratory dessert, ideal for Mother's Day. This cake features a tender crumb that complements the creamy tang of lemon mascarpone. The inclusion of lemon curd in the batter enhances the cake's smoothness and depth of flavor, making it a delightful choice for the occasion.
Ingredients
To prepare this cake, the following ingredients are required:
- 330g plain flour
- 2½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- 225g unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 225g caster sugar
- Finely grated zest of 2 lemons
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 160g lemon curd
- 250ml whole milk
- Small edible flowers (for decoration)
For the lemon mascarpone:
- 250g lemon curd (plus extra for decoration)
- 250g mascarpone
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/gas mark 4. Prepare two 20cm round cake tins by lining the bases and sides with baking paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In an electric mixer, combine the butter, sugar, and lemon zest. Beat on medium-high for about two minutes until the mixture is pale, smooth, and creamy.
4. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring to beat well after each addition and scrape down the bowl as needed.
5. Combine Ingredients: With the mixer on low, alternate adding the sifted dry ingredients with the lemon curd and milk, about a third at a time, finishing with the dry ingredients. Mix just until incorporated.
6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared tins (approximately 660g per tin) and level the tops. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the tins before turning them out.
7. Prepare Lemon Mascarpone Cream: In a clean mixer bowl, combine the lemon curd and mascarpone. Beat on medium-high until soft waves form and the mixture holds its shape.
8. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread half of the lemon mascarpone cream on top. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining cream over it.
Final Touches
To complete the cake, swirl or dollop additional lemon curd on top and decorate with edible flowers. This visually appealing and flavorful cake is sure to make Mother's Day special.
