Lemon Meringue Layer Cake is a delightful dessert that combines fluffy lemon cake layers with tangy lemon curd and a light, airy meringue topping. This cake is perfect for spring and summer celebrations, offering a refreshing and zesty flavor that will impress your guests!

Ingredients

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

Timing

Making Lemon Meringue Layer Cake takes about 30 minutes for preparation, 30-35 minutes for baking, plus chilling time for the lemon curd and meringue.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Curd

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the water while whisking to combine.
2. Cook Mixture: Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until thickened.
3. Add Egg Yolks: Slowly add a small amount of the hot mixture to the beaten egg yolks to temper them, then whisk the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Finish Curd: Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, butter, and lemon zest. Allow the curd to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Meringue

1. Beat Egg Whites: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form.
2. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the Cake: Place one layer of lemon cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of lemon curd over the top. Repeat with the second layer of cake and more lemon curd. Top with the third layer of cake.
2. Add Meringue: Spread the meringue over the top and sides of the cake, creating peaks with a spatula.

Step 5: Brown the Meringue

1. Toast Meringue: Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue, or place the cake under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice and Enjoy: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve and enjoy the bright flavors of lemon and the airy meringue!

Step 7: Dig In

1. Savor the Flavor: Indulge in the refreshing combination of lemon cake, tangy curd, and fluffy meringue!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Lemon Meringue Layer Cake (per slice, based on 12 slices):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	4g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	25g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Add lime zest and juice for a key lime version of this cake.
• Fruit Additions: Incorporate fresh berries between the layers for added flavor and color.
• Meringue Alternatives: For a different topping, consider using whipped cream instead of meringue.

Conclusion

Lemon Meringue Layer Cake is a stunning dessert that beautifully combines bright lemon flavors with light and fluffy textures. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth! Enjoy this delightful recipe!