Description
This delightful Lemon Dubai Cake is a fusion dessert combining zesty lemon flavor, crunchy ground pistachios, and creamy white chocolate for a unique Middle Eastern-inspired treat. Moist and flavorful, it’s perfect for any celebration or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup ground pistachios
- 3/4 cup white chocolate chips or chunks
- 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped pistachios and white chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to infuse the batter with fresh citrus and aromatic vanilla.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground pistachios to evenly distribute the leavening agents and nuts.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk (or buttermilk), and mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fold in White Chocolate: Gently fold the white chocolate chips into the batter to ensure even distribution without melting them.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before removing to maintain its structure.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth to create a tangy glaze.
- Glaze and Garnish: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Sprinkle chopped pistachios and white chocolate shavings on top as garnish for added texture and visual appeal.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 8 servings and enjoy this moist, flavorful dessert.
Notes
- For a more intense citrus flavor, add a bit of lemon extract to the batter.
- The cake can be baked a day ahead and glazed just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist.