Recipe for Lemon Velvet Cake That Melts in Your Mouth

Welcome to the delightful world of lemon velvet cake—a dessert that perfectly balances the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons with the soft, luxurious texture of velvet cake. Whether you’re planning a special celebration or simply craving a refreshing treat, this recipe will become your go-to for a cake that’s both elegant and irresistibly moist.

The subtle tang of lemon combined with the smooth crumb of velvet cake creates a heavenly bite that lingers on your palate, making every forkful pure joy.

This lemon velvet cake is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a visually stunning centerpiece, adorned with creamy lemon frosting and optional lemon zest garnish. It’s simple enough for bakers of all skill levels yet impressive enough to wow guests and family alike.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a masterpiece that’s bursting with sunshine and flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lemon velvet cake recipe stands out because it perfectly marries a light, airy texture with vibrant citrus notes. Unlike heavier lemon cakes, this one boasts a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth, thanks to the unique combination of ingredients and baking techniques.

The use of buttermilk adds a subtle tang and helps tenderize the crumb, while fresh lemon juice and zest provide an authentic brightness that pre-made lemon extracts just can’t match. Plus, the accompanying lemon cream cheese frosting is luxuriously smooth, lending a creamy contrast to the zesty cake layers.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, reliable, and perfect for any occasion—from birthdays and bridal showers to casual afternoon tea. Get ready to fall in love with a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 large lemons)
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• For the frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• 2 x 9-inch round cake pans
• Electric mixer (stand or hand-held)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling racks
• Zester or fine grater
• Whisk
• Offset spatula or butter knife (for frosting)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the two 9-inch cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy—about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender crumb and a well-risen cake.
4. Add eggs and lemon zest: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the lemon zest and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix on low speed just until combined; overmixing can make the cake dense.
6. Add fresh lemon juice: Gently fold in the lemon juice using a spatula to distribute the citrus flavor evenly without deflating the batter.
7. Divide and bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
9. Prepare the frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined. Add fresh lemon juice and mix well. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.
10. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over it. Top with the second layer and apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) to seal in crumbs. Chill for 20 minutes, then finish frosting the cake smoothly.
11. Garnish: Sprinkle lemon zest over the top for a beautiful, fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

“For the best lemon flavor, always use fresh lemon juice and zest. Avoid bottled lemon juice as it can alter the taste and texture of your cake.”

• Tip: Make sure all ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Variation: For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan margarine and use almond or oat milk mixed with 1 tbsp vinegar in place of buttermilk.
• Gluten-free option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Add 1 tsp xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it.
• Extra zest: Add poppy seeds to the batter for a lovely texture and visual interest.
• Frosting alternative: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a light lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a less sweet finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This lemon velvet cake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it alongside a cup of hot Earl Grey tea or a refreshing glass of iced green tea to complement the citrus notes.

For an extra indulgent experience, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries also make a wonderful, colorful garnish that adds a subtle tartness to balance the sweetness.

If serving at a party, consider plating individual slices with a mint leaf and a light drizzle of honey or lemon syrup for an elegant touch.

Conclusion

Making a lemon velvet cake from scratch is a rewarding experience that results in a stunningly moist, flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. Its delicate crumb, infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, combined with a smooth cream cheese frosting, creates a harmonious balance of tangy and sweet that will delight your family and guests.

This recipe is straightforward enough for bakers of all levels and can be easily customized with variations to suit dietary needs or taste preferences. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want to brighten your day with a slice of sunshine, this lemon velvet cake is sure to become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our blog like Classic Red Velvet Cake, Lemon Drizzle Pound Cake, and Cream Cheese Frosting Essentials to expand your baking skills and dessert options!

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