Bite-sized Lemon Desserts (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Cakes

01 - 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from 1 medium lemon)
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
05 - 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, at room temperature
06 - 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
07 - 3 large eggs
08 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 medium lemon)

→ For the Glaze

09 - 2 cups (220g) confectioners' sugar, sifted
10 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 medium lemon)
11 - 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from 1 medium lemon)
12 - 1 to 2 tablespoons milk

# Instructions:

01 - Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray your mini muffin pans or mini bundt pans with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
02 - Grab a medium bowl and whisk the flour, lemon zest, and salt together. Just set this aside for now - we'll need it later.
03 - In your largest bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until they're smooth and creamy. Take your time here - this creates the foundation for your cakes.
04 - Gradually pour in the sugar while beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Then add your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one goes in.
05 - Pour in the fresh lemon juice and mix until it's fully incorporated throughout your batter.
06 - Slowly add your flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until everything comes together. Don't overmix or your cakes might turn out tough!
07 - Spoon the batter into your prepared pans, filling each cavity about two-thirds full to give them room to rise.
08 - Bake for 15-18 minutes, until they're golden and a toothpick stuck in the center comes out clean without any wet batter.
09 - Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10 - In a bowl, mix the confectioners' sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Add just enough milk to make it pourable but still thick enough to coat the cakes nicely.
11 - Once your cakes are completely cool, drizzle the tangy lemon glaze over each one and let it set before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For an extra burst of lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter.
02 - These mini cakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
03 - If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk used.