Yuzu Cake

Yuzu Cake is a citrusy and tangy Japanese cake that features the unique and fragrant flavor of yuzu, a Japanese citrus fruit that resembles a small grapefruit and has a distinctive tartness with floral notes. Here's a simple recipe for making Yuzu Cake:

Ingredients for the Cake:

1. 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3. 1/4 teaspoon salt
4. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
5. 1 cup granulated sugar
6. 3 large eggs
7. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8. 1/4 cup yuzu juice (you can find yuzu juice at Japanese grocery stores or online)
9. Zest of 1 yuzu or 1 lemon
10. 1/2 cup whole milk

Ingredients for the Yuzu Glaze:

1. 1/4 cup yuzu juice
2. 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Stir in the yuzu juice and zest until well incorporated.
6. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Yuzu Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together the yuzu juice and powdered sugar until well combined and smooth.

Assembly:

1. Once the cake is completely cooled, place it on a serving plate.
2. Pour the yuzu glaze over the top of the cake, spreading it with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
3. Optionally, you can garnish the cake with additional yuzu zest or lemon zest for extra flavor and decoration.
4. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your Yuzu Cake, a refreshing and tangy dessert that showcases the unique flavor of yuzu, perfect for citrus lovers and those who appreciate the distinct taste of Japanese cuisine!