Perfect Lemon Cake

10 Tips for The Most Refreshing Dessert [2025]

Introduction

Discover the secrets to creating the most vibrant, moist Lemon Cake that perfectly balances sweet and citrus flavors. This recipe delivers a bright, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual afternoon tea to elegant celebrations.

Lemon Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Cake recipe stands out with its perfect texture and authentic citrus flavor. We’ve perfected the balance of ingredients to create a cake that’s incredibly moist yet light, with a natural lemon taste that shines through in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this foolproof recipe guarantees impressive results.


Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

For Garnish:

  • Candied lemon slices
  • Fresh berries
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
    • Grease and flour a Bundt pan
    • Line bottom with parchment if using layer pans
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    • Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda
    • Add salt and set aside
    • Combine lemon zest with sugar
  3. Create the Batter:
    • Cream butter and lemon sugar until fluffy
    • Add eggs one at a time
    • Mix in vanilla extract
    • Alternate dry ingredients and buttermilk
    • Add lemon juice last
  4. Bake and Glaze:
    • Pour batter into prepared pan
    • Bake 45-50 minutes until done
    • Cool for 10 minutes in pan
    • Remove and cool completely
    • Prepare and apply glaze

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve at room temperature for best flavor and texture. Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. This cake also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months when wrapped properly. Bring to room temperature before serving.


Helpful Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for best results
  • Don’t overmix the batter once flour is added
  • Zest lemons before juicing them
  • Test cake with wooden pick for doneness
  • Let cake cool before glazing
  • Use fresh lemons, not bottled juice

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead? Yes! Bake up to 2 days in advance and glaze before serving.

Why did my cake sink? Opening the oven door too early can cause sinking. Wait until at least 40 minutes before checking.

Can I use Meyer lemons? Absolutely! They’ll give a sweeter, more floral flavor.

How do I store leftover cake? Cover tightly and store at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

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