Classic Lemon Cake

This Lemon Cake is the perfect combination of a soft, buttery cake and a bright, tangy lemon flavor. The light lemon glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and a touch of brightness, making every bite a delightful experience. This zesty and refreshing cake is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for a special occasion or a simple afternoon treat.

Pair it with a cup of tea or enjoy it as a light after-dinner dessert. Its delicate texture and vibrant flavor make it easy to customize with toppings like fresh berries or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

The Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

  • ½ cup powdered sugar

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Directions

  1. Prepare the pan and oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.

  2. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

  4. Add wet ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, sour cream, and vanilla extract.

  5. Mix wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just smooth and combined.

  6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  7. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

  8. Make the glaze: While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.

  9. Finish: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and serve.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: 270 kcal | Servings: 8 servings

A Deeper Look at Lemon Cake

The Origins of Lemon Cake

While the exact origin is hard to pinpoint, citrus-based desserts have been around for centuries, prized for their flavor and preservative qualities. The use of lemons in baking became popular in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. The modern version of lemon cake, especially the American-style pound cake, became a kitchen staple in the 20th century with lemons becoming more widely available.

Why Lemon Cake is So Popular

Lemon cake's popularity comes from a few key factors:

  • Refreshing Flavor: The tangy citrus flavor cuts through the richness of the butter and sugar, creating a refreshing contrast.

  • Versatility: It can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with frosting and various toppings.

  • Universal Appeal: The bright, zesty taste is a crowd-pleaser that complements both sweet and savory palettes.

Baking Tips for a Perfect Lemon Cake

  • Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a much brighter, more authentic flavor than bottled versions.

  • Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter too much can develop the gluten, leading to a dense, heavy cake.

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and room temperature eggs blend more smoothly, resulting in a better cake texture.

  • Correctly Measure Flour: Use the "spoon-and-level" method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the cake dry.

  • Don't Skip the Glaze: The simple glaze adds sweetness and a beautiful, glossy finish that enhances the cake's flavor and appearance.

Variations of Lemon Cake

The classic recipe is a great starting point for creative variations:

  • Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: Add poppy seeds for a pleasant crunch.

  • Lemon Blueberry Cake: Fold in fresh blueberries for added sweetness and a pop of color.

  • Lemon Curd Filling: Use tangy lemon curd between layers for a richer, more decadent dessert.

  • Lemon and Lavender Cake: Infuse the cake with a hint of lavender for a unique and sophisticated flavor.

  • Lemon with Cream Cheese Frosting: Pair the cake with cream cheese frosting for a rich, creamy, and tangy combination.

How to Serve Lemon Cake

Lemon cake is versatile and can be served in many ways. For a casual treat, a simple slice with tea or coffee is perfect. For more formal occasions, you can layer the cake with frosting and garnish with fresh berries, candied lemon slices, or edible flowers. It also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a light fruit salad.

Storing and Freezing Lemon Cake

This cake stores well, making it a convenient dessert.

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Freezing: Tightly wrap the cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Lemon cake is more than just a dessert—it's a slice of sunshine in every bite. Its tangy, refreshing flavor makes it perfect for any occasion, and its versatility means you can easily personalize it to your taste. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice, this cake is a simple yet elegant treat that anyone can make. With the right ingredients and a little care, you'll be able to bake a lemon cake that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.