When it comes to citrus-infused desserts, a lemon layer cake with lemon cream cheese frosting is a true delight for the taste buds. Bursting with the fresh and zesty flavors of real lemons, this homemade cake is a perfect treat for any occasion. The combination of a light and tender lemon cake, made with buttermilk and Greek yogurt, paired with a dreamy lemon cream cheese frosting creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Crafted with care and attention to detail, this easy lemon cake recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple yet delicious desserts. The fluffy and moist cake layers, enriched with lemon zest and juice, offer a delightful texture and taste that is both refreshing and indulgent. Topped with a luscious lemon cream cheese frosting and adorned with lemon slices, this lemon layer cake is like a slice of sunshine on a plate.
Ingredients
Creating a scrumptious lemon layer cake with lemon cream cheese frosting requires a curated selection of high-quality ingredients. Let’s gather the components for this delightful dessert.
For the Lemon Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)
- Fresh lemon slices
- Lemon zest curls
- Edible flowers
- Mint leaves
Equipment Needed
To successfully prepare this scrumptious lemon layer cake with lemon cream cheese frosting, you will need the following equipment:
Cake Making Equipment:
- Two 8-inch round cake pans
- Nonstick baking spray
- Parchment paper
- Kitchen scale
- Wire racks for cooling
Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Equipment:
- Stand mixer or electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
Having these essential tools ready will ensure a smooth and efficient cake-making process.
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
- Measure out the flour, sugar, butter, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest for the lemon cake layers.
- Separate the specific ingredients needed for the lemon cream cheese frosting, including butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
Make the Lemon Cake Layers
- Preheat the oven to the recommended temperature and prepare the cake pans with nonstick baking spray and parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set it aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: melted butter, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream and lemon juice until well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake as directed. Remember not to open the oven door too soon to prevent uneven baking.
Prepare the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a stand mixer, cream together room temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt while mixing until a smooth and creamy frosting consistency is achieved.
- Once the cake layers have cooled completely, spread a layer of lemon curd between each layer.
- Frost the outside of the cake generously with the prepared lemon cream cheese frosting, ensuring even coverage.
- Garnish the cake with fresh lemon slices, lemon zest curls, or edible flowers for a visually appealing finish. Chill the cake before serving for best results.
Make-Ahead Tips
When preparing a lemon layer cake with lemon cream cheese frosting, I find it incredibly helpful to utilize some make-ahead tips to streamline the process and ensure a stress-free baking experience. Here are some essential steps you can take in advance:
1. Preparing the Lemon Cake Layers
To save time on the day you plan to assemble the cake, I recommend baking the lemon cake layers in advance. Once the cake layers have completely cooled, carefully wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This way, you can focus on assembling and decorating the cake without the added stress of baking on the same day.
2. Making the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Another make-ahead tip is to prepare the lemon cream cheese frosting ahead of time. After making the frosting according to the recipe instructions, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. When you’re ready to assemble the cake, simply bring the frosting to room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore its creamy consistency.
3. Preparing Garnishes and Decorations
Garnishes like fresh lemon slices, lemon zest curls, edible flowers, and mint leaves can elevate the visual appeal of your lemon layer cake. You can prepare these decorative elements a day before and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. This way, you can easily adorn your cake with these beautiful touches when serving.
By following these make-ahead tips, you can effectively plan and organize your lemon layer cake baking process, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Serving and Presentation
Enhancing the visual appeal of your lemon layer cake with lemon cream cheese frosting is just as important as perfecting its taste. Here are some creative ways to decorate and serve this delightful dessert:
Decorating Ideas
- Lemon Slices and Zest Curls: Adorn the top of the cake with thin lemon slices and delicate curls of lemon zest for a vibrant and citrusy finish.
- Fresh Flowers: Add a touch of elegance by placing edible flowers like pansies, violets, or lavender on top of the cake. Ensure the flowers are pesticide-free.
- Mint Leaves: Sprinkle a few fresh mint leaves around the base of the cake or use them as a garnish on individual slices for a pop of green color and refreshing aroma.
- Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a glossy lemon glaze over the cake for an extra burst of tangy flavor and a shiny finish.
- Chilled: This lemon layer cake tastes best when served slightly chilled. Remove it from the fridge 15-20 minutes before serving for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Accompaniments: Pair slices of the cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a side of fresh berries for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Storage and Freshness Tips
When it comes to preserving the freshness of your delectable lemon layer cake with lemon cream cheese frosting, proper storage is key. Here are some essential tips to ensure your cake stays as delicious as the day you made it:
1. Refrigeration: After assembling the cake with the luscious lemon cream cheese frosting, store it in an airtight container or cake carrier in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will help maintain the frosting’s consistency and prevent the cake from spoiling quickly.
2. Lemon Slices Preservation: If you decorated your cake with fresh lemon slices, remove them before storing the cake in the fridge. Place the lemon slices in a separate container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them from drying out.
3. Proper Covering: To prevent the cake from absorbing any unwanted flavors from the fridge, cover it tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the refrigerator. This will help preserve the cake’s moisture and keep it tasting fresh.
4. Serve Chilled: For an even more refreshing taste experience, serve the lemon layer cake slightly chilled. The cold temperature adds a delightful crispness to the flavors and textures, making each bite a burst of citrusy goodness.
5. Storage Duration: Enjoy your lemon layer cake within 3-4 days of making it for the best taste and texture. While the cake will still be safe to eat after this time, the quality may start to diminish, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
By following these simple storage and freshness tips, you can savor every last crumb of your tantalizing lemon layer cake with lemon cream cheese frosting, ensuring that each slice tastes as heavenly as the first.
Conclusion
Creating a delectable lemon layer cake with lemon cream cheese frosting is a delightful culinary journey. By using top-notch ingredients and following the recipe’s steps, you can achieve a dessert that tantalizes the taste buds. Garnishing with lemon slices, zest curls, or mint leaves adds a touch of elegance to the presentation. Remember to store the cake properly for lasting freshness and optimal flavor. With these tips in mind, each slice of this lemony delight promises to be a heavenly experience.