Lemon drop cakes, infused with fresh lemon zest for an incredible burst of flavor, are a delightful treat for all lemon enthusiasts. These mini lemon drop cakes, generously coated in a mouthwatering lemon glaze, strike the perfect balance between sweetness and tanginess, making them irresistibly addictive. As a devoted fan of all things lemon, experimenting with these delectable treats has been a delightful adventure.
Originally inspired by a recipe that yielded an abundance of lemon drops, I crafted my own version to create a more manageable batch of these delightful mini cakes. The soft, buttery texture of the cakes, combined with the zesty lemon glaze that seeps into every crevice, ensures a truly indulgent experience with each bite. Perfect for gatherings or simply as a personal indulgence, these lemon drop cakes are sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Creating these delightful mini lemon drop cakes involves gathering quality ingredients for both the cake and the luscious lemon glaze. Below are the ingredients you’ll need to make these heavenly treats.
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 4 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 3/4 cup vanilla frosting
- 1 lb white chocolate
- Assorted sprinkles, crushed nuts, or toasted coconut flakes
- Lollipop sticks
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups confectioners sugar
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Enjoy creating these delectable mini lemon drop cakes with these carefully selected ingredients.
Equipment and Tools Needed
To create these scrumptious mini lemon drop cakes, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools and equipment to ensure a smooth baking experience. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Kitchen Tools:
- Mixing Bowls: Prepare various mixtures and batters for the cake and glaze.
- Electric Mixer: Cream the butter and sugar, and whip the egg whites for a fluffy texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurately measure out the ingredients for precise baking.
- Whisk: Combine dry ingredients and gently fold in the whipped egg whites for a light and airy cake texture.
- Rubber Spatula: Scrape down the sides of the bowl and fold in ingredients gently to avoid overmixing.
- Sifter: Sift the dry ingredients to ensure a smooth and clump-free batter.
- Cake Tins: Use 8-inch cake tins to bake the cake layers evenly.
- Cooling Rack: Allow the cakes to cool properly before frosting.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to the specified temperature for baking the cakes.
- Parchment Paper: Line the cake tins for easy removal of the cakes.
- Cake Stand or Plate: Display and serve the finished mini lemon drop cakes beautifully.
- Knife or Offset Spatula: Spread the frosting evenly on the cakes.
- Zester or Grater: Extract lemon zest for both the cake batter and the glaze.
- Citrus Juicer: Squeeze fresh lemon juice for that tangy flavor in the glaze.
- Cooking Spray or Butter: Grease the cake tins before pouring in the batter for easy release.
Having these tools and equipment readily available will streamline the baking process, allowing you to focus on creating these delightful mini lemon drop cakes with ease.
Instructions
Preparing the Batter
To begin, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Next, in a mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, lemon Jell-O, eggs, water, and oil. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it spreads evenly. Place in the preheated oven and bake for around 30 minutes or until the cake springs back to the touch when finished.
Baking the Cake
While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a separate bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
Once the cake is done baking, use a fork to poke holes all over it. Pour the prepared glaze over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Making the Lemon Glaze
In a medium bowl, combine the thawed frozen whipped topping (COOL WHIP) with the lemon frosting. Stir well until fully combined.
Once the cake has cooled, frost it with the whipped topping and lemon frosting mixture. Refrigerate the cake as it contains whipped topping and keep it covered.
Assembling the Lemon Drop Cake
To assemble the delectable lemon drop cake, follow these steps for a seamless and enjoyable baking experience:
Mixing the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix and the lemon pie filling, stirring until well incorporated.
- Gently fold in the cubed cream cheese and the pieces of salted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Baking the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare your non-stick muffin pans by spraying them with non-stick cooking spray.
- Scoop the prepared batter into the muffin pans, using a small cookie scoop for consistent portion sizes.
- Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until they are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool for 5 minutes in the pans before transferring them to cooling racks to cool completely.
Making the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon zest, melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and milk until smooth and well combined.
- Heat the glaze in the microwave for about 10 seconds to achieve a thin consistency.
- Dip the bottom of each lemon drop cake into the prepared glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Invert the cakes onto a cooling rack, placing the glazed side up to set.
- Allow the glaze to harden before serving or refrigerating the lemon drop cakes for a chill treat.
By following these steps meticulously, you will create a batch of irresistible mini lemon drop cakes that are bursting with tangy lemon flavor and a delightful sweet glaze, perfect for any occasion.
Optional Variations
Expand the flavor profile of the mini lemon drop cakes by trying out some creative variations.
Adding Fruit Toppings
Elevate the visual appeal and taste of the mini lemon drop cakes by adding fresh fruit toppings such as sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The vibrant colors and fruity flavors will complement the zesty lemon taste, adding a refreshing twist to the cakes.
Incorporating Cream Cheese
For a decadent touch, consider incorporating a cream cheese filling or frosting to the mini lemon drop cakes. The creamy and tangy notes of the cream cheese will harmonize beautifully with the lemon-infused flavor, creating a luscious contrast in textures. In each bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of rich creaminess and citrus brightness.
Storing and Serving
Best Practices for Storage
After creating these delectable lemon drop cakes, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Store the cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them moist and flavorful. Make sure to consume them within a few days for the best taste and texture.
Tips for Serving
When it’s time to serve these delightful lemon drop cakes, consider presenting them cold or at room temperature for a versatile treat. A thin layer of the sweet lemon glaze is all you need to enhance the cakes’ flavors without overpowering them. For an added touch of elegance, garnish with assorted sprinkles, crushed nuts, or toasted coconut flakes before serving. Whether enjoyed as a casual snack or a special dessert, these mini lemon drop cakes are sure to impress with their citrusy charm.
Conclusion
Creating mini lemon drop cakes is a delightful way to indulge in a burst of citrusy sweetness. The soft, buttery texture combined with the zesty glaze offers a perfect harmony of flavors. By following the detailed steps outlined in this article, you can easily whip up a batch of these delectable treats. Remember to use quality ingredients and the right kitchen tools for the best results. Experimenting with different toppings and fillings can add a creative twist to your lemon cakes. Storing them properly in the fridge will help maintain their freshness. Whether enjoyed cold or at room temperature, these mini lemon drop cakes are sure to impress your guests with their elegant appearance and irresistible taste. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a little slice of lemony heaven!