The Best Lemon Cakes Great Gatsby Recipe to Impress Recipe
Step into the Jazz Age with this classic Great Gatsby-inspired lemon cake recipe. Featuring a delicate vintage batter, a tangy lemon filling, and a smooth lemon glaze, this cake balances sweet and tart flavors with a light, moist texture reminiscent of 1920s desserts. Perfect for impressing guests with a nostalgic twist and timeless elegance.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Batter
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted three times)
- 1 3/4 cups sugar
- 1 cup butter (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Lemon Filling
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Vintage Lemon Glaze
- Fresh lemon zest (from one lemon)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: Begin by bringing all ingredients to room temperature for optimal blending. Cream 1 cup of butter with 1 3/4 cups sugar until pale and fluffy using a mixer. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth mixture. Gently fold in 2 1/4 cups sifted flour and 1 teaspoon lemon zest until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
- Create the Lemon Filling: In a saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 cup sugar, 4 egg yolks, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before using.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Preheat oven to 160-170°C (325-350°F). Divide the batter evenly into 5 prepared cake pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool fully on wire racks before assembling.
- Assemble the Cake: Layer the cooled cakes, spreading an even layer of the cooled lemon filling between each one. Ensure each layer is fully covered but not dripping to prevent sogginess.
- Prepare the Vintage Lemon Glaze: In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, the zest of one lemon, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and glossy.
- Glaze the Cake: Pour the lemon glaze over the assembled cake, allowing it to gently cascade over the sides for an elegant finish. Let the glaze set at room temperature.
- Serving and Storage: Serve at room temperature for best flavor. Store at room temperature for 3-5 days wrapped or covered to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to two months, thawing before serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense texture.
- Sift flour three times for a tender crumb.
- Use fresh, high-quality lemons for the best flavor impact.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before adding filling or glaze to prevent melting.
- Store cake properly at room temperature or freeze to maintain texture and flavor.
- The recipe is inspired by 1920s baking techniques and favors precision and care.
Keywords: lemon cake, vintage lemon cake, Great Gatsby recipe, 1920s desserts, lemon filling, lemon glaze, classic dessert
