Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons

Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons is a delightful dessert that brings sunshine to any table. This cake is moist, rich, and bursting with citrus flavor, making it perfect for celebrations or a cozy afternoon tea. The candied lemons add a beautiful touch and an extra zing that elevates the entire dish. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or simply sweetening up your day, this cake is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese and butter creates a rich texture that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this cake approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain or dressed up with a glaze and candied lemons for special occasions.
• Citrusy Freshness: The bright flavors of lemon zest and juice bring a refreshing twist that delights the senses.
• Impressive Presentation: The candied lemons on top not only look stunning but also provide a delicious contrast in flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you enjoy the experience of making this delicious cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan or tube pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan or tube pan: This shape allows for even baking and creates an appealing presentation.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and cream cheese effortless, ensuring a light texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for separating wet and dry ingredients to achieve the right consistency.

Ingredients

For the Pound Cake:

• 1 cup (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Lemon Glaze (for extra zing):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

For Candied Lemons:

• 2 lemons, thinly sliced (1/4-inch thick)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10- or 12-cup Bundt or tube pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Pound Cake

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, beating until very light in color — around another 3-5 minutes.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
6. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
7. Pour the batter into your prepared Bundt or tube pan and smooth out the top.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 70-80 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.

Step 4: Cool Your Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before carefully turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Candied Lemons

1. In a skillet over medium heat, combine water and granulated sugar; bring to a simmer.
2. Once simmering, add lemon slices in a single layer. Simmer gently (do not boil) for about 15-20 minutes until translucent.
3. Carefully transfer slices onto parchment paper to cool; they will firm up as they dry.

Step 6: Optional Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this over your cooled cake if desired before adding candied lemons.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once both your cake and candied lemons are fully cooled, arrange candied lemon slices beautifully over the top of your pound cake. For an elegant finish, consider adding mint leaves or dusting with powdered sugar before serving!

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons

Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for brunch, dessert, or a special occasion, there are several serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries make a vibrant and refreshing complement to the rich cake.

Add Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that balances the dense pound cake beautifully.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or lemon sorbet can provide a creamy contrast, making each bite even more indulgent.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves not only adds color but also introduces a refreshing flavor that brightens the dish.

Drizzle with Honey

• A touch of honey on top enhances the sweetness while adding depth to the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons

Perfecting your Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour, preventing a dense cake caused by too much flour.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Cool Completely Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool fully before serving so that it maintains its structure and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake can enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness and acidity that complements the lemon flavors perfectly.
3. Chia Seed Pudding
   This healthy option adds texture and contrasts nicely with the richness of the pound cake.
4. Yogurt Parfait
   Layering yogurt with granola and fruits creates a delightful balance between creamy and crunchy textures.
5. Lemon Sorbet
   A scoop of lemon sorbet amplifies the citrus notes in the cake while providing a cool finish.
6. Herbed Quinoa
   The nutty flavor of quinoa tossed with herbs can serve as a savory counterpoint to this sweet dessert.
7. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats offer a tropical flair that pairs wonderfully with lemon flavors.
8. Chocolate Mousse
   The richness of chocolate mousse can create an indulgent dessert experience alongside your pound cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Wrong Oven Temperature: Using an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Skipping Ingredient Temperature Checks: Using cold eggs or cream cheese can prevent proper mixing. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
• Neglecting to Grease the Pan: A poorly greased pan can cause sticking and ruin the cake’s appearance. Grease and flour your bundt or tube pan thoroughly.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can affect the cake’s structure. Use a kitchen scale for precision when measuring flour and sugar.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Letting the cake cool too quickly in the pan can result in cracks. Allow it to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep candied lemons stored separately to maintain their texture.

Freezing Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering it for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons:

Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a different flavor profile, although it may alter the texture slightly.

How do I prevent my cake from sinking?

Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature and do not open the oven door during baking until it’s nearly done.

What is the best way to store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it if you prefer it chilled.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Be aware of additional moisture adjustments based on the blend used.

How long does this cake last?

When stored properly, this delicious cake stays fresh for about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

The Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Candied Lemons is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adding different citrus fruits or spices like cardamom for an extra twist. It’s perfect as a dessert or even paired with tea during afternoon gatherings. Give this delightful recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!