Lemon Velvet Cake

Embark on a journey of citrusy delight with this Lemon Velvet Cake featuring a luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting. Bursting with the fresh and zesty flavors of lemon, this cake is a perfect balance of velvety texture and vibrant taste. Elevate your dessert table with the sunny charm of this Lemon Velvet Cake, a treat that’s equally suited for special occasions or a simple indulgence.

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Velvet Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Yellow food coloring (optional)

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Mix in the buttermilk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. If desired, add a few drops of yellow food coloring for a vibrant hue.
6. Divide Batter and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy and well combined.
8. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are cool, spread a layer of Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
9. Optional: Decorate with Lemon Zest: Garnish the top with additional lemon zest for a decorative touch.

Tips:

• Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter and cream cheese, are at room temperature for smoother incorporation.
• Adjust the intensity of lemon flavor by adding more or less lemon juice to the frosting.
• To achieve a velvety texture, avoid overmixing the batter.

In conclusion, this Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a celebration of bright and tangy flavors enveloped in a velvety crumb. From the tender layers of cake to the creamy citrus frosting, each bite is a burst of sunshine. Whether shared at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a special dessert, this cake is a delightful way to embrace the refreshing essence of lemons. Revel in the joy of baking and the pleasure of savoring this delicious Lemon Velvet creation!