Lemon Cake is a light and refreshing dessert that bursts with the bright and zesty flavors of fresh lemon. This classic cake features a moist, tender crumb and a delightful balance of sweet and tart, making it perfect for any occasion, from a casual afternoon tea to a festive celebration. The cake is topped with a simple lemon glaze that adds an extra layer of citrusy sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor and presentation. With its irresistible aroma and tangy taste, Lemon Cake is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly delightful treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the sour cream or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice if needed.
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to run down the sides.
- Serve: Slice and serve the Lemon Cake with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Enjoy this delightful Lemon Cake as a refreshing and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, celebrating the bright and zesty flavors of lemon in every bite.
