06/25/2026
Lemon Pudding Cake
Ingredients
For the Batter Base
2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp lemon zest (finely grated)
3 egg yolks
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
For the Meringue
3 egg whites
1/3 cup granulated sugar (sifted to remove lumps)
For the Water Bath
1 1/2 cups hot water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Oven & Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish (or similar size) thoroughly with butter or cooking spray on the bottom and sides to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Batter Base
Cream: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, 1/3 cup sugar, and lemon zest for 1–2 minutes until pale and well combined (this releases the essential oils in the zest).
Combine: Beat in the egg yolks one at a time. Gently stir in the flour until just combined.
Liquid Ingredients: Whisk in the milk, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until completely smooth.
3. Whip & Fold the Meringue
Soft Peaks: In a separate, completely clean and dry bowl, beat the 3 egg whites on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
Stiff Peaks: Gradually add the sifted 1/3 cup sugar. Continue beating for 2–3 minutes until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Fold: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the egg whites into the lemon batter in two separate additions. Technique: Cut down the center, sweep across the bottom, and fold up, rotating the bowl to avoid deflating the whites.
4. Setup the Water Bath (Bain-Marie)
Pour the finished batter into your greased baking dish.
Nest: Place the baking dish inside a larger roasting pan.
Add Water: Carefully pour 1 1/2 cups of hot water into the larger roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
5. Bake & Cool
Bake for 25–30 minutes. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly to the touch, but still jiggle slightly in the center (indicating the pudding layer underneath is ready).
Cool: Carefully remove the pans from the oven. Let the cake cool at room temperature for at least 15 minutes so the pudding layer can set.
6. Garnish & Serve
Dust the top generously with powdered sugar.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Use a large spoon to scoop deep into the dish, ensuring everyone gets a perfect mix of fluffy cake on top and silky lemon pudding on the bottom.