Introduction
Craving a delightful, zesty treat? These Mini Lemon Drop Cakes are the perfect solution! They’re small, deliciously moist, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a sweet treat, these mini cakes are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Lemon Drop Cakes
- Bursting with Lemon Flavor: Each bite offers a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Easy to Make: Easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home.
Ingredients Overview
For the Mini Cakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Glaze
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven: First, heat your oven up to 325°F.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, ½ tsp of salt, and ½ tsp of baking soda.
Preparing the Butter Mixture
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter over medium heat.
- Add Water: Once melted, add ½ cup of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Mix Together: Pour the hot butter mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use an electric mixer to combine until just mixed.
- Add Flavors: Mix in ¼ cup of sour cream, 1 egg, 1 tbsp of lemon zest, and 1 tbsp of lemon juice until the batter is smooth.
Baking the Mini Cakes
- Prepare Muffin Tin: Cover a small muffin tin with cooking spray.
- Fill and Bake: Fill each muffin cup with the batter. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick stuck in the middle comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the mini cakes to cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.
Making the Lemon Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: While the cakes cool, mix 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar, 2 tbsp of lemon juice, 1 tsp of lemon zest, 2 tbsp of milk, and 1 tbsp of melted butter in a small bowl. Put the mixture in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to heat it up.
Glazing the Mini Cakes
- Dip the Cakes: Dip each cooled cake into the glaze, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Set: Place the glazed cakes back on the cooling rack and allow the glaze to harden.
Tips for Perfect Mini Lemon Drop Cakes
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will give the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the cakes tender.
- Proper Cooling: Make sure the cakes cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
Serving Suggestions
- With Tea or Coffee: These mini cakes are perfect alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee.
- Dessert Table: They make a lovely addition to any dessert spread at parties or gatherings.
- Garnish: Add a thin slice of lemon or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days in a container that won’t let air in.
- Freeze: You can also freeze these cakes for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t have a mini muffin tin. Can I just use a regular muffin tin next time?
Yes, but the baking time will need to be changed. Start checking for doneness at around 18-20 minutes.
How Can I Make These Cakes More Lemon-Flavored?
Increase the amount of lemon zest and juice in both the batter and glaze for a more intense lemon flavor.
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream?
Yes, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
How Long Will These Cakes Stay Fresh?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Can I Freeze Mini Lemon Drop Cakes?
Yes, they freeze well. Put them in a container that won’t let air in and freeze them for up to three months.
Conclusion
These Mini Lemon Drop Cakes are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them an irresistible treat. Whether for a special occasion or a simple dessert, they are sure to delight. Enjoy baking and savoring these lovely little cakes!
Enjoy your baking adventure with these delightful mini lemon drop cakes, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!