Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) melted butter
- ½ cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) milk (warm)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Whipped cream
- Lemon slices or zest
Step 1: Preparing the Batter
Start by cracking the eggs into a large bowl. Add sugar and whisk until the mixture becomes pale and slightly fluffy. This step helps create a smooth and light texture.
Pour in the melted butter and mix well.
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. At this point, the batter will smell fresh and citrusy—this is what gives the dessert its signature flavor.
Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine flour and a pinch of salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Adding Milk
Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking. The batter will look very thin—this is completely normal. During baking, it separates into layers:
- A light top layer (slightly cake-like)
- A creamy custard bottom
Step 4: Baking
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
Grease a baking dish (glass or ceramic works best), then pour in the batter.
Place the dish into a larger tray filled with hot water (water bath method). This ensures even cooking and keeps the texture smooth.
Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until:
- The top is lightly golden
- The center is slightly jiggly but set
Step 5: Cooling
Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature.
Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This helps the custard fully set and enhances the flavor.
Step 6: Serving
Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Scoop with a spoon to get that creamy inside layer.
You can serve it:
- Warm (very soft and creamy)
- Cold (firmer, like custard pie)
Texture & Taste
- Top layer: Light, slightly fluffy
- Middle: Soft and airy
- Bottom: Rich, creamy custard
The flavor is:
- Sweet but not heavy
- Bright lemon taste
- Smooth and comforting
Tips for Best Results
1. Don’t Skip the Water Bath
This prevents cracking and keeps the dessert silky.
2. Use Fresh Lemon Juice
It gives a natural, vibrant taste compared to bottled juice.
3. Don’t Overbake
The center should still jiggle slightly when you take it out.
4. Let It Chill
This step is key for the perfect creamy texture.
Variations
Extra Creamy Version
Replace half of the milk with heavy cream.
Coconut Twist
Add ¼ cup shredded coconut for extra texture.
Orange Version
Swap lemon juice with orange juice for a milder flavor.
Storage
- Keep in fridge up to 3 days
- Cover tightly
- Best served chilled
Why This Recipe Works
This dessert is special because it naturally separates into layers while baking. The flour forms a light structure at the top, while the liquid settles into a custard underneath.
The result is a dessert that feels fancy but is actually very easy to make.
Final Thoughts
If you love creamy desserts, this one is a must-try. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and always impressive. Perfect for family gatherings or just a sweet treat at home.