29 Apr 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
1/3 cup sugar
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tbsp corn flour
1 cup milk (1% fat)
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp lemon zest
4 eggs
The classic lemon soufflé is a delightful and airy dessert that's perfect for those who love a zesty and light treat. With a delicate balance of lemon's tartness and a fluffy texture, this classic French dish is sure to impress your guests. Follow this detailed recipe to create a perfect lemon soufflé that rises beautifully and offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the ramekins by greasing them lightly with butter and sprinkling sugar to coat the inside surfaces.
2. Prepare Lemon Mixture:
In a small mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of lemon zest. Set aside to infuse.
3. Make the Base Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of corn flour. Stir continuously with a whisk to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste, but do not let it brown.
4. Add Milk:
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk to the roux. Continue whisking constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and thickens, forming a béchamel sauce. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Combine with Lemon Mixture:
- Once the béchamel sauce has cooled a bit, stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest mixture. Set this aside to cool further while you prepare the egg components.
6. Separate the Eggs:
- Carefully separate the 4 eggs, placing the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another.
- Beat the egg yolks slightly and then gradually whisk them into the now slightly cooled lemon-béchamel mixture.
7. Whip the Egg Whites:
- Using a mixer, whisk the egg whites until they become frothy.
- Gradually add the 1/3 cup of sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
8. Fold in the Egg Whites:
- Gently fold a small amount of the whipped egg whites into the lemon base mixture to lighten it.
- Gradually fold in the remaining egg whites, taking care not to deflate the mixture. Use a spatula and fold until just combined.
9. Fill the Ramekins:
- Carefully spoon the soufflé mixture into the prepared ramekins, filling them almost to the top.
- Smooth the surface with a spatula and gently run your thumb around the inside edge of each ramekin to create a small groove. This helps the soufflé rise evenly.
10. Bake:
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the soufflés have risen and turned golden on the top. They should be slightly jiggly in the center.
11. Serve Immediately:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and serve immediately. Soufflés begin to deflate quickly, so enjoy them while they're puffed and warm.
Tips:
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before beginning the recipe.
- Be very gentle when folding in the egg whites to maintain their airiness.
- Grease and sugar your soufflé dishes thoroughly to help the soufflés rise evenly.
- Do not open the oven door while the soufflé is baking, as it may cause it to deflate.
- Serve the soufflé immediately after baking, as it will begin to deflate quickly.
Congratulations! You've successfully made a classic lemon soufflé. Enjoy the light, airy texture combined with the tangy lemon flavor. Serve it immediately to wow your friends and family with a perfect ending to any meal. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t rise perfectly the first time.