German > Leipziger Lerchen

Leipziger Lerche with Lemon and Pistachios Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
- Zest of 1 lemon

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
7. Stir in the lemon juice, pistachios, and lemon zest.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 300 kcal
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 33 g
Protein: 5 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: margarine
- Whole milk: almond milk
- Pistachios: walnuts

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries
- Substitute the lemon juice and zest for orange juice and zest

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Add the dry ingredients in three additions to ensure even distribution.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios.

Garnishes:
Whipped cream, chopped pistachios, lemon zest.

Pairings:
Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Fruit salad, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cake is overbaked, it may be dry. To prevent this, check the cake for doneness after 25 minutes and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning and that the eggs are fresh.

Food History:
Leipziger Lerche is a traditional German cake that originated in the city of Leipzig in the 18th century.

Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a sweet, buttery flavor with a hint of lemon and a crunchy texture from the pistachios.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or as a snack with coffee or tea.

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Region: German

Taste: Citrusy, Nutty, Sweet, Tart