Indulge in this luscious Lemon Cake that’s so good, it’s to die for! With its moist layers, zesty lemon flavor, and creamy frosting, this cake is perfect for celebrations, afternoon teas, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
📋 Ingredients:
For the Lemon Cake:
- 🥚 4 large eggs
- 🍬 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 🧈 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 🍋 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 🍋 Zest of 2 lemons
- 🥛 1 cup buttermilk
- 🍚 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 🥄 2 tsp baking powder
- 🥄 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 🧀 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 🍬 4 cups powdered sugar
- 🍋 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 🍋 Zest of 1 lemon
- 🥄 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish (Optional):
- 🍋 Thin lemon slices
- 🌿 Fresh mint leaves
📝 Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer over the first and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Garnish: Decorate the cake with thin lemon slices and fresh mint leaves if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve your Lemon Cake to Die For! Enjoy the burst of lemony goodness in every bite.
🍽 Serve:
Enjoy this delectable Lemon Cake as a centerpiece for any occasion!
⏱ Preparation Time: 25 minutes
⏱ Cooking Time: 30 minutes
⏱ Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling time)
🍽 Servings: 12 slices
🔥 Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per slice
💡 Notes:
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Extra Lemon Flavor: For an extra zing, you can brush the cake layers with a simple syrup made of equal parts lemon juice and sugar before frosting.
Enjoy your sensational Lemon Cake to Die For! 🍋✨🍰