Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is not too sweet, making it ideal for breakfast or brunch. The lemony flavor is refreshing, and the crumble topping adds a delightful texture. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, this cake is sure to be a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
For the crumble topping:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For the cake:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Make the crumble topping: Pulse granulated sugar and lemon zest in a food processor, then mix with melted butter, flour, and lemon juice. Set aside.
- Prepare the cake batter: Preheat the oven and prepare an 8-inch springform pan. Whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, cream together butter, lemon sugar, and remaining granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla, and lemon juice, alternating with buttermilk. Mix well.
- Assemble and bake: Pour batter into the pan, top with crumble, and bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Add fruit: Add fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries to the batter.
- Glaze: Drizzle with a lemon glaze for extra sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it the night before and store it in an airtight container.
How can I make this cake sweeter?
Add more sugar to the batter or glaze with a lemon icing.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, use regular milk and add 1.5 teaspoons of vinegar to make a quick buttermilk substitute.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well; just wrap it tightly before freezing.
Conclusion
The Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake is a bright, zesty treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it warm, room temperature, or chilled, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of lemon.
Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake
This Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake is a light, tender cake topped with a sweet, buttery crumble and packed with fresh lemon flavor. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it offers a refreshing citrus taste that will brighten your day. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, this cake is a delicious treat that’s not too sweet and perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Crumble Topping
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For the Cake
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
-
Make the Crumble Topping:
- Pulse granulated sugar and lemon zest in a food processor.
- Mix with melted butter, flour, and lemon juice, and set aside.
-
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and prepare an 8-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, cream together butter, lemon sugar, and remaining granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs, vanilla, and lemon juice, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until smooth.
-
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Top with the crumble mixture and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
Notes
- Add Fruit: You can mix in fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries into the batter for an extra fruity flavor.
- Glaze Option: Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze for added sweetness.
