Easy Joy Of Cooking Lemon Sponge Custard Recipe For Zesty Treats

Lemon sponge custard represents pure culinary magic, transforming simple ingredients into a cloud-like delicacy that dances between creamy and airy textures.

Bright citrus notes complement the delicate base, creating a sophisticated dessert that feels both comforting and elegant.

Home bakers adore this classic recipe for its straightforward preparation and impressive results.

Silky smooth yet surprisingly light, the custard offers a refreshing twist on traditional desserts.

Zesty lemon undertones provide a remarkable depth that elevates the entire dish beyond ordinary sweet treats.

Subtle techniques make this recipe accessible to bakers of all skill levels, promising delightful results every time.

The mixture’s ethereal quality will surprise and delight you with its remarkable simplicity: prepare to be enchanted.

Creative Twists On Lemon Sponge Custard

• Citrus Fusion: Replace lemon with orange or lime zest for a vibrant, tangy flavor profile that transforms the classic dessert.
• Lavender Infusion: Add dried lavender buds to the batter for a sophisticated, aromatic twist that elevates the traditional sponge custard.
• Chocolate Swirl: Incorporate melted dark chocolate into the egg white mixture, creating a rich, marbled effect throughout the dessert.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped almonds or pistachios to introduce a delightful texture and nutty undertone to the light, airy custard.

Parting Thoughts On Lemon Sponge Custard

Lemon sponge custard whispers sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen, where simple ingredients dance into culinary magic.

Colonial American desserts rarely shine as brilliantly as this delicate treat, combining silky texture with zesty brightness.

Ramekins become portals to comfort, each spoonful revealing layers of creamy elegance and citrus sophistication.

Gentle lemon notes waltz with cloud-like egg whites, creating a dessert that transcends ordinary expectations.

Whipped cream and fresh berries elevate this classic recipe from delightful to extraordinary.

Craving a slice of pure happiness?

Share this recipe, spread the joy, and watch passionate bakers light up with excitement.

Delight In The Zesty Lightness Of Lemon Sponge Custard

• Whip Up a Silky Sensation: This lemon sponge custard delivers a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth, combining the lightness of whipped egg whites with the richness of creamy custard.
• Burst of Zesty Brightness: The lemon zest and juice infuse the dessert with a vibrant, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced and refreshing treat.
• Elegant Yet Effortless: Despite its sophisticated appearance, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make, with basic techniques like whipping egg whites and creating a water bath that elevate a straightforward dessert into something truly special.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for intimate dinner parties or family gatherings, this dessert can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an adaptable and stress-free finale to any meal.

Key Ingredients For Lemon Sponge Custard

• Butter: Rich flavor base and helps with smooth mixing.
• Sugar: Sweetens and helps create frothy texture.
• Egg Yolks: Provides richness and helps bind the custard.
• Egg Whites: Creates light, airy texture when whipped.

• Vanilla: Adds warm, sweet background flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Brings bright, citrusy notes to the dessert.
• Lemon Juice: Provides tangy, fresh citrus taste.

• Flour: Gives structure and helps thicken the custard.
• Salt: Balances and enhances overall flavor.
• Milk: Adds moisture and creates creamy consistency.
• Cream of Tartar: Stabilizes egg whites during whipping.

• Powdered Sugar: Light dusting for visual appeal and extra sweetness.
• Whipped Cream: Optional topping for additional richness.
• Fresh Fruit: Optional garnish for color and freshness.

How To Whip Up Lemon Sponge Custard

Step 1: Prepare Baking Equipment

Grease 6 ramekins (1-cup size) with butter. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Arrange a large baking pan for water bath.

Step 2: Create Butter Mixture

• Egg yolks
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest

Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Milk
• Fresh lemon juice

Stir until ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Whip Egg Whites

• Cream of tartar
• Extra sugar

Whip until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Step 5: Fold Egg Whites

Carefully fold whipped egg whites into batter. Use gentle motions to maintain airiness.

Step 6: Prepare Water Bath

Pour batter into buttered ramekins. Place ramekins inside large baking pan. Fill pan with hot water halfway up ramekin sides.

Step 7: Bake Custard

Bake in preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. Look for golden brown top and clean toothpick test when inserted.

Step 8: Cool and Rest

Remove ramekins from water bath. Allow custard to cool slightly at room temperature.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

• Whipped cream
• Fresh seasonal fruits

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Handy Advice For Lemon Sponge Custard

• Whip Egg Whites with Precision: Beat until stiff peaks form, creating a cloud-like texture that defines the dessert's lightness.
• Fold Carefully: Introduce whipped egg whites into the batter using a delicate folding motion, preserving those precious air bubbles.
• Squeeze Fresh Citrus: Select ripe lemons and extract juice moments before mixing, guaranteeing a vibrant, zesty flavor profile.
• Master the Water Bath: Create a gentle heating environment by surrounding ramekins with warm water, preventing harsh temperature fluctuations that could damage the delicate custard.
• Temperature Matters: Allow ingredients to reach room temperature before combining, ensuring smooth blending and consistent results.

Tips For Storing Lemon Sponge Custard

• Seal Tight: Lock the custard in an airtight glass container to preserve its delicate texture and prevent flavor absorption from other refrigerator items. Glass containers maintain the dessert's original taste better than plastic alternatives.
• Portion Control: Divide remaining custard into individual serving sizes before storing. This strategy allows easier thawing and reduces potential waste by removing only the amount you'll consume.
• Freezing Wisdom: Wrap the container with plastic wrap and aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. Label with the date to track storage duration and ensure maximum freshness.

Joy Of Cooking Lemon Sponge Custard Recipe

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4.7 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Lemon sponge custard brings sunshine from classic American kitchens with delicate layers of zesty comfort. Creamy, light textures and bright citrus notes dance together, creating a simple dessert that promises pure comfort and nostalgic pleasure for anyone seeking a sweet moment of bliss.

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Ingredients

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Primary Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated white sugar
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk (whole or reduced fat, but not skim)
• ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice

Flour and Seasoning Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup (40 grams) all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)

Flavor and Fat Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (outer yellow skin of lemon)

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Instructions

1. Prepare six 1-cup ramekins by generously coating with butter and preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and airy, creating a fluffy texture.
3. Incorporate egg yolks, pure vanilla extract, and freshly grated lemon zest into the butter-sugar mixture, blending until smooth and well combined.
4. Gradually fold in all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt, alternating with milk and freshly squeezed lemon juice to create a silky batter.
5. In a separate clean bowl, whip egg whites using an electric mixer, adding cream of tartar to stabilize the mixture.
6. Slowly introduce additional sugar while continuing to beat egg whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape.
7. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the prepared batter, using a careful folding technique to maintain the mixture’s airiness.
8. Evenly distribute the batter among the buttered ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full.
9. Place the ramekins in a large baking pan and carefully pour hot water into the pan, reaching halfway up the sides of the ramekins to create a water bath.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center (it should come out clean).
11. Remove the pan from the oven and carefully take out the ramekins from the water bath, allowing them to cool slightly.
12. Just before serving, dust the tops with powdered sugar and optionally garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh seasonal fruit.
13. Serve warm or at room temperature for the most delightful texture and flavor experience.

Notes

• Cracking eggs requires careful separation, keeping yolks intact for perfect meringue.
• Chilled mixing bowls help stabilize egg whites during whipping process.
• Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly and create consistent texture.
• Folding techniques determine the final lightness of your soufflé.
• Ceramic ramekins conduct heat evenly, preventing uneven rising.
• Preheating oven guarantees immediate rising and golden exterior.
• Serving immediately preserves delicate structure and impressive height.
• Moisture control is critical to preventing soggy or deflated results.
• Gentle movements during preparation maintain maximum air incorporation.
• Timing between mixing and baking ensures peak culinary performance.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 322 kcal
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 73 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 186 mg