Description
Light, fluffy, and delicately sweet, this Portuguese Easter Cake (Pão de Ló) is a timeless celebration dessert with centuries of tradition. Often served during Easter in Portugal, this sponge cake is known for its airy texture, golden color, and rich egg flavor. Made with just a few ingredients, it rises beautifully without baking powder and tastes divine with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
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Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
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6 large eggs, room temperature
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
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1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
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Zest of 1 lemon (optional for added fragrance)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line your cake pan with parchment paper—bottom and sides. Allow excess paper to rise above the edge to help the cake hold shape.
Do not grease the pan, as this helps the cake climb and stay airy.
Step 2: Whip the Eggs and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs and sugar on high speed for 10–12 minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and triples in volume.
It should form ribbons when you lift the beater.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Lemon Zest (Optional)
Fold in the vanilla and lemon zest gently, being careful not to deflate the batter.
Step 4: Incorporate the Flour
Sift the flour over the egg mixture in 2–3 additions.
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the flour after each addition.
Fold carefully to keep the batter airy—don’t overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Avoid opening the oven door in the first 25 minutes to prevent collapse.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment and place on a wire rack.
Cool completely before slicing.
Serve as-is or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Notes
Room Temperature Eggs – They whip up with more volume and structure.
Beat Thoroughly – The egg-sugar mixture must be light and fluffy before folding in flour.
Sift the Flour – Prevents clumps and keeps the batter smooth.
Don’t Overbake – The center should be just set for a moist texture.
Cool Upside Down – This prevents the cake from sinking too much in the middle.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: Portuguese