Indulge in a slice of culinary history with the renowned Lemon Pound Cake recipe from the prestigious Ritz Carlton Hotel. This beloved dessert has stood the test of time, delighting generations with its irresistible lemony flavor and moist, tender crumb. Join us as we uncover the rich history behind this classic recipe and guide you through the steps to recreate it in your own kitchen.
Tools Needed, Servings, and Cooking Time
Before you embark on your baking journey, ensure you have the necessary tools and ingredients at your disposal. This recipe yields two loaf pans or one large Bundt pan, serving approximately 12 people. The preparation time is minimal, with a total baking time of around 55 minutes.
Tools Needed:
- 2 loaf pans or 1 large Bundt pan (15-cup)
- Electric mixer
- Medium bowl for sifting
- Cooling racks
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create the perfect Lemon Pound Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup shortening (vegetable shortening or Crisco), room temperature
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 6 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Steps
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this exquisite Lemon Pound Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour 2 loaf pans or one large Bundt pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter, Shortening, and Sugar: Using an electric mixer, cream together the room temperature butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing at low speed just until blended after each addition.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Mix in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest until evenly distributed throughout the batter, infusing it with bright citrus flavor.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared pans, spreading it evenly. Bake the cakes in the preheated oven until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean, approximately 55 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15 minutes before turning them out onto cooling racks to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve this delectable Lemon Pound Cake to eager guests or savor it for yourself.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
To ensure your Lemon Pound Cake turns out flawlessly every time, consider the following tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the butter, shortening, and eggs are at room temperature to achieve proper creaming and incorporation.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent the cake from becoming dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Sift the dry ingredients to remove any lumps and aerate the flour for a lighter crumb.
- Cool the cakes completely before slicing to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Top 5 Mistakes People Usually Make and How to Avoid Them
- Overmixing the Batter: Be mindful not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Overmixing can result in a tough, dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender crumb.
- Not Greasing and Flouring the Pans Properly: Ensure the loaf pans or Bundt pan are thoroughly greased and floured to prevent the cake from sticking. This will ensure easy release and a beautifully intact cake.
- Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Follow the recommended oven temperature closely to avoid underbaking or overbaking the cake. A properly preheated oven ensures even baking and a golden brown crust.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients, particularly butter, shortening, and eggs, are essential for proper creaming and incorporation. Cold ingredients can result in an uneven texture and hinder the rise of the cake.
- Not Allowing Sufficient Cooling Time: Resist the temptation to rush the cooling process. Allowing the cakes to cool completely in the pans before turning them out ensures they maintain their shape and texture.
FAQ for 5 Questions About This Recipe
- Can I Use Lemon Extract Instead of Fresh Lemon Juice?
- While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, you can substitute lemon extract if needed. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as lemon extract can be more concentrated.
- Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
- While butter yields the best flavor and texture, you can use margarine as a substitute. However, keep in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.
- Can I Freeze Lemon Pound Cake?
- Yes, Lemon Pound Cake freezes well. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Can I Add Lemon Glaze to the Cake?
- Absolutely! A simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice can be drizzled over the cooled cake for extra flavor and sweetness. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
- Can I Make Mini Pound Cakes Instead of Loaves?
- Yes, you can use mini loaf pans or muffin tins to make individual-sized pound cakes. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as smaller cakes will bake faster than larger ones.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ritz Carlton Hotel’s Lemon Pound Cake recipe is a timeless classic that continues to delight dessert lovers around the world. With its delicate crumb, bright lemon flavor, and simple elegance, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to special celebrations. By following our detailed instructions and tips, you can recreate the magic of this iconic dessert in your own kitchen and create unforgettable memories with friends and family. So why wait? Get baking and savor the taste of perfection with every bite of this delectable Lemon Pound Cake!
