Lemon Cake Recipe

If you love the refreshing taste of citrus, this Lemon Cake recipe will be your new favorite treat! Moist, fluffy, and bursting with lemony goodness, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a weekend treat, or a tea-time delight, this recipe is simple yet incredibly delicious. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest adds a vibrant flavor that makes this cake truly irresistible.

This cake is not just about taste—it’s also about texture. The buttermilk keeps it incredibly soft and moist, while the balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes every bite delightful. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a simple lemon glaze, or topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients For Lemon Cake

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

How To Make Lemon Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt by whisking them together.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Combine

Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, and mix until just combined.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the batter to the greased cake pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Additions

Lemon Glaze:

For an extra punch of citrus flavor, mix the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake for a simple yet delicious finishing touch.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

For a richer topping, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, then continue mixing until creamy. Spread over the cooled cake for a decadent treat.

Tips for the Best Lemon Cake

• Use fresh lemons – Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same bright flavor as freshly squeezed juice.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Stir just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Room temperature ingredients – Allow eggs, butter, and buttermilk to come to room temperature before baking for the best texture.
• Let it cool completely – Applying frosting or glaze to a warm cake can cause it to melt or become too runny.

Serving Suggestions

This lemon cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an elegant dessert, serve it with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a light, sweet finish.

Conclusion

This moist and fluffy Lemon Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of sunshine to every bite! With its tangy yet sweet flavor and soft texture, it’s perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a simple treat to brighten your day. Whether topped with a light glaze or rich frosting, this homemade cake is sure to impress. Try it today and indulge in the zesty goodness!

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