Delicious Lemon Cake Recipe

Introduction

This delicious lemon cake is a bright and zesty treat perfect for any occasion. Moist and flavorful, it balances fresh lemon juice and zest with a tender crumb that’s sure to please. Whether for a celebration or a simple dessert, this cake is an easy, delightful choice.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, then mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Step 5: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
6. Step 6: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Step 7: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting or dusting with powdered sugar.

Tips & Variations

• For extra lemon flavor, add a lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice and drizzling over the cooled cake.
• You can substitute the butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil for a slightly different texture.
• Try adding a handful of blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
• Make sure not to overmix once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender.

Storage

Store the lemon cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. When reheating, let refrigerated cake come to room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for a few seconds.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is best for bright flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice if necessary. Use the same amount, though the flavor might be less vibrant.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, this lemon cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Delicious Lemon Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 148 reviews

This Delicious Lemon Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert bursting with fresh lemon zest and juice. Perfectly balanced with a tender crumb and subtle sweetness, this cake is simple to prepare and ideal for any occasion when you crave a bright, citrus-flavored treat.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans to prevent sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color for a tender cake texture.
4. Add eggs and flavorings: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, then add fresh lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and toughening the cake.
6. Bake the cake: Evenly pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the cake: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely before frosting, serving, or dusting with powdered sugar.

Notes

• Ensure butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender.
• Check doneness early at 25 minutes to prevent overbaking, as ovens vary.
• Allow cakes to cool completely to avoid melting frosting.

Keywords: Lemon Cake, Citrus Cake, Homemade Cake, Easy Cake Recipe, Moist Cake, Summer Dessert