Lemon and Vanilla Slice

Lemon and Vanilla Slice Recipe

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Lemon and Vanilla Slice is a delightfully refreshing dessert that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the rich creaminess of vanilla. This dish is perfect for gatherings, family celebrations, or even as a sweet treat after dinner. The best part is that it’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a light and satisfying dessert that everyone will love.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Lemon and Vanilla Slice is not only delicious but is also a healthier version of a traditional dessert. With its balanced flavors and lighter option compared to other sweets, it’s great for meal prep. You can whip it up ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Additionally, this slice is lower in calories compared to richer desserts, making it a smart pick for weight loss, allowing you to indulge without guilt.

How to Make Lemon and Vanilla Slice

Making your own Lemon and Vanilla Slice is not as hard as you might think! Follow the steps below for a delightful treat that combines flavors beautifully while keeping health in mind.

Equipment Needed

• Oven
• Baking trays
• Baking paper
• Saucepan
• Wire rack
• Cake pan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Sifter

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 sheets store-bought frozen butter puff pastry
• 3 cups (750ml) thickened cream, plus extra 1 1/2 cups (375ml)
• 1/4 cup (55g) caster sugar
• 3 tsp vanilla bean paste
• Finely grated zest of 4 lemons, plus 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp custard powder
• 3 1/2 titanium strength gelatine leaves, soaked in cold water for 5 minutes
• 1 cup (120g) pure icing sugar, sifted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit).
2. Line 2 baking trays with baking paper. Place the sheets of puff pastry on the trays and cover them with another sheet of baking paper and another tray to weigh them down.
3. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden. After baking, transfer the pastry to a wire rack to cool.
4. In a saucepan, combine the thickened cream, caster sugar, vanilla bean paste, and half of the lemon zest. Cook over medium heat until it simmers.
5. Mix the custard powder with some of the hot cream to form a paste. Return this mixture to the saucepan along with the soaked gelatine leaves, stirring until dissolved. Set the mixture aside to infuse for 1 hour.
6. Once infused, strain the mixture to remove any lumps. Cover and place in the fridge until it thickens.
7. Grease and line a cake pan with baking paper. Trim the cooled pastry and place one sheet in the base of the pan.
8. Using a whisk, beat the extra cream until it forms stiff peaks. Then, gently fold in the chilled cream mixture until well combined.
9. Spoon this mixture over the base pastry and top it with the second sheet of pastry. Chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours to set.
10. For icing, whisk together the icing sugar, the remaining lemon zest, lemon juice, and a bit of hot water until smooth. Spread the icing on top of the set pastry.
11. Chill again for 30 minutes, then slice into 10 pieces to serve.

How to Serve Lemon and Vanilla Slice

Serving Lemon and Vanilla Slice is simple. You can cut it into squares and serve it as-is, or garnish it with fresh berries or mint for added flavor and a pop of color. To maintain portion control, aim for small squares to enjoy a sweet taste without overindulging. This slice can be enjoyed as a refreshing dessert after lunch or dinner and works wonderfully paired with a cup of tea or coffee.

Storage & Freezing: Lemon and Vanilla Slice

This Lemon and Vanilla Slice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to extend its life, you can also freeze portions of it. Wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to have a quick treat ready whenever you crave something sweet.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this light Lemon and Vanilla Slice with a healthy side option such as a salad of mixed greens or some sliced fresh fruit. This balances out the meal while providing you with necessary fiber and vitamins. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side can also increase the protein content, making it a more complete snack.

Variations

Healthier Version

For a healthier version, consider using a whole wheat pastry instead of regular puff pastry. This adds more fiber to your dessert, making it a more nutritious choice while keeping the same satisfying texture.

High-Protein or Low-Carb Version

To make a high-protein version, incorporate Greek yogurt into the cream mixture. This adds extra protein, making it more filling and satisfying. For a low-carb alternative, you can use almond flour pastry instead of puff pastry to reduce the carb content significantly.

Air Fryer or Oven-Baked Version

Instead of baking in an oven, you can prepare pastry sheets in an air fryer. Simply follow the same steps for cooking the pastry, adjusting the time and temperature for air frying to achieve that golden, crispy finish.

FAQs

Can I make Lemon and Vanilla Slice sugar-free?

Yes! You can replace sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to make it diabetic-friendly. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

How long can I store this dessert in the fridge?

You can store the Lemon and Vanilla Slice in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure it is properly covered to maintain its freshness.

Is this Lemon and Vanilla Slice suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This slice is a great option for meal prep, as you can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Just remember to keep it chilled!

Can I freeze this dessert?

Yes, you can freeze the Lemon and Vanilla Slice for up to three months. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic to avoid freezer burn.

Make-Ahead Tips for Lemon and Vanilla Slice

This Lemon and Vanilla Slice is a great treat to prepare ahead of time. You can complete most of the steps the day before your event or meal, allowing the slice to chill in the fridge overnight. Preparing this in advance not only saves time but also makes it easier to serve when you have guests over. You can impress your family and friends with a homemade dessert that looks and tastes fantastic, all while keeping the prep work simple.

In summary, making the Lemon and Vanilla Slice is an enjoyable experience that yields a delightful dessert. With its health benefits, ease of preparation, and delicious flavor, this slice is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Whether you’re watching your weight, looking for a quick meal prep option, or just want a sweet treat, the Lemon and Vanilla Slice is a fantastic choice!

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