This Moist Lemon Cake is a burst of citrus sunshine in every bite. It’s a delightful treat for lemon lovers, with its tender crumb and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a bright and refreshing dessert, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Cake:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from the same lemons used for zest)
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) square baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture, alternating with the whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in the 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice until well incorporated.
Step 2: Bake the Lemon Cake
- Pour the lemon cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is lightly golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
- While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until you have a smooth glaze. Adjust the thickness to your liking by adding more or less lemon juice.
Step 4: Glaze and Serve
- Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes in the pan.
- Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm cake.
- Sprinkle additional lemon zest on top for a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
- Slice the Moist Lemon Cake and serve it as a delightful dessert or afternoon treat. It’s also great with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes:
- You can adjust the sweetness and tartness of the glaze by adding more or less powdered sugar or lemon juice.
- This cake is versatile and can be baked in various pan sizes, just be mindful of adjusting the baking time accordingly.
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh.
Moist Lemon Cake is a zesty and delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your table. The combination of lemon zest, juice, and a sweet glaze creates a perfect harmony of tastes and a tender crumb that’s sure to please everyone’s palate. Enjoy it as a special treat or a refreshing pick-me-up whenever you need a slice of sunshine.