Lemon cake is the epitome of freshness and simplicity. Its tangy, zesty flavor combined with a soft, moist texture makes it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a birthday, or just want a sweet treat, this Easy Lemon Cake recipe will deliver delicious results every time.
This cake strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. It’s made with basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, and the process is straightforward—even for beginner bakers. To elevate the flavor, the cake is finished with a simple lemon glaze that adds an extra burst of citrusy goodness. Let’s dive into this quick and effortless recipe that’s guaranteed to brighten your day!
2. Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup whole milk
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3. Directions
For the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
- Mix in the lemon juice. The batter may appear slightly curdled, but this is normal.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice if needed.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides.
4. How to Prepare
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smoother batter and even baking.
- Zesting and Juicing Lemons: Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Zest before juicing to make the process easier.
- Glazing: Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting.
- Presentation: Garnish with extra lemon zest or thin lemon slices for a beautiful finish.
5. Preparation Time
- Active Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 30–35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
6. Servings
This lemon cake serves 8–10 people.
7. FAQs
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.
Q: How do I store this lemon cake?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze lemon cake?
A: Yes! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I add poppy seeds to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Add 1–2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for a delicious lemon-poppy seed variation.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time as needed.
8. Conclusion
This Easy Lemon Cake is a dessert that’s simple to make yet bursting with flavor. Its soft, moist texture and bright citrus notes make it a treat everyone will love. Whether you serve it with tea, coffee, or as the grand finale to a meal, this cake is sure to impress.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can dress it up with berries, whipped cream, or even a layer of lemon curd for a more decadent treat. No matter how you enjoy it, this lemon cake is a surefire way to add a little sunshine to your day. Try it out, and let its delightful zest and sweetness bring joy to your table!