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Lemon Meringue Layer Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 95 reviews

This vibrant Lemon Meringue Layer Cake combines moist lemon-flavored cake layers with a tangy homemade lemon curd filling and a glossy, toasted meringue topping. Perfect for celebrations or a refreshing dessert, this cake balances citrus brightness with sweet, fluffy textures.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Lemon Cake

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup whole milk

For the Lemon Curd

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 large egg yolks (lightly beaten)
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

For the Meringue

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cake Pans and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes a few minutes using an electric mixer.
  4. Add Eggs and Lemon: Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice until fully incorporated, giving the batter a fragrant citrus flavor.
  5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing and a dense cake.
  6. Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks and cool completely.
  7. Make the Lemon Curd: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in the water. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. Temper the lightly beaten egg yolks by stirring a small amount of the hot mixture into them, then whisk the yolks back into the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until thickened further. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice, unsalted butter, and lemon zest. Let the curd cool completely.
  8. Prepare the Meringue: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks develop.
  9. Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a layer of cooled lemon curd evenly on top. Add the second cake layer and repeat spreading the lemon curd. Top with the third cake layer.
  10. Apply and Toast the Meringue: Spread the prepared meringue over the top and sides of the assembled cake, creating decorative peaks with a spatula. Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue surface or place the cake under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  11. Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve and enjoy the bright, creamy, and fluffy lemon meringue layer cake.

Notes

  • Make sure to cool the cake layers completely before assembling to prevent the lemon curd from melting the meringue.
  • When browning the meringue under the broiler, watch it closely as it can burn quickly.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
  • The lemon curd can be made ahead and refrigerated but bring it to room temperature before assembling.
  • For a more stable meringue topping, ensure no yolk contaminates the egg whites, and the bowl is completely clean and dry.

Keywords: lemon cake, lemon meringue, layer cake, lemon curd, homemade cake, citrus dessert

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/lemon-meringue-layer-cake-recipe/