Description
This Lemon Layer Cake is soft, moist, and packed with fresh citrus flavor in every bite. The fluffy cake layers paired with creamy lemon frosting create a refreshing dessert that feels elegant enough for celebrations yet simple enough for a weekend treat. Whether you are searching for easy dessert ideas, spring cake recipes, homemade cake inspiration, or refreshing food ideas, this bright and delicious lemon cake is guaranteed to impress family and guests alike.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups cake flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Fresh lemon slices
Extra lemon zest
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. Line the pans with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the batter, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. To prepare the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
11. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then add the lemon juice, lemon extract, and heavy cream.
12. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread frosting evenly on top.
13. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
14. Decorate with fresh lemon slices and lemon zest before serving.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner layers and easier serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: lemon layer cake, easy cake recipe, homemade lemon cake, citrus dessert, spring dessert, cake ideas, dessert ideas