Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion! Its light and fluffy texture combined with the zesty cream cheese frosting makes it a standout dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in some springtime sweetness, this cake will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and extracts creates a refreshing citrus taste that dances on your palate.
- Moist Texture: This cake stays incredibly moist thanks to the buttermilk and oil, ensuring each bite is tender and delicious.
- Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, tea parties, or just a sunny afternoon; this cake suits any event.
- Simple Steps: With clear instructions, even beginner bakers can achieve great results without stress.
- Luscious Frosting: The creamy lemon cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of indulgence that complements the cake beautifully.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools ready. Having everything organized helps streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch round cake pans: These are essential for creating perfectly layered cakes that bake evenly.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing batter and frosting to achieve a fluffy texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking for consistent results.
Ingredients
This sunny lemon velvet cake is pure citrus bliss! The tender cake layers and luscious lemon cream cheese frosting make for the ultimate taste of springtime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cake flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening
– 2 large eggs
– 1-2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp lemon extract
– 1 heaping tsp lemon zest
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 tsp white vinegar
– 1/3 cup hot lemon water (2 tbsp lemon juice mixed with 1/3 cup hot water)
– 4-6 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
– 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 8 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
– 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 tsp lemon extract
– 1 1/2 heaping tsp lemon zest
– 4-5 cups powdered sugar
– 1-2 tsp lemon juice (if needed)
– 4-5 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
How to Make Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
Cake flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together:
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil
Butter-flavored shortening
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon zest
Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Alternately mix:
Dry ingredients
with
Buttermilk
until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix!
Step 5: Add Vinegar and Lemon Water
Mix together white vinegar and hot lemon water. Stir this mixture into your batter along with food coloring if desired.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the centers are just set.
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
For the frosting, beat together:
Softened cream cheese
and
Unsalted butter until fluffy.
Then mix in:
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon zest
and powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 9: Frost Your Cake
Once cooled, frost each layer of your cake with the luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. If you like, garnish with fresh lemon slices for an added touch!
How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is just as important as baking it. The right presentation and accompaniments can enhance the flavors and elevate the experience for your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to consider.
Classic Slices
- Serve generous slices of the lemon velvet cake on individual plates. Pair with a dollop of lemon cream cheese frosting on top for added richness.
Fresh Berries
- Add a side of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Their tartness complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
Whipped Cream
- Offer a light topping of whipped cream alongside each slice. It adds a creamy texture that balances the tangy notes of the lemon.
Ice Cream
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet. The cold dessert contrasts deliciously with the warm cake and frosting.
Lemon Zest Garnish
- Top each slice with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for an extra pop of citrus flavor and visual appeal.
Mint Leaves
- A few fresh mint leaves on the side can provide a refreshing touch and vibrant color to your plate presentation.
How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
To achieve the perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, consider these helpful tips that will make all the difference in your baking journey.
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
-
Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and other dry ingredients helps aerate them, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
-
Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to avoid dense cake layers; overmixing can lead to toughness.
-
Check Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, not wet batter.
-
Cool Cakes Completely: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures clean layers.
-
Adjust Sweetness: If your frosting is too sweet, add a little more lemon juice for balance. Taste as you go!
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting with complementary side dishes enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside:
-
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and freshness that pairs well with the rich cake.
-
Citrus Salad: A salad featuring mixed citrus fruits provides bright flavors that enhance the cake’s lemony notes.
-
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, offers a savory contrast to the sweet cake.
-
Pistachio Crumble: A pistachio crumble sprinkled over each slice provides crunch and nutty flavor that complements lemon perfectly.
-
Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These bring an indulgent sweetness that pairs nicely with the tanginess of the lemon cake.
-
Lemonade: Serve refreshing homemade lemonade for an extra citrus kick that ties in beautifully with the dessert.
-
Tea or Coffee: Offering tea or coffee can create a cozy atmosphere while balancing out the sweetness of the cake.
-
Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae bar where guests can create their own sundaes using various toppings along with your delicious lemon velvet cake!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can be delightful, but common mistakes can lead to disappointment. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong flour: Different flours have different properties. Always weigh your flour for accuracy and use the specified types in the recipe.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking requires precision. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you don’t add too much or too little of any ingredient.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the cakes to cool properly is crucial. If you frost a warm cake, it can melt the frosting and ruin its appearance.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough cake texture. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy result.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Ovens vary in temperature accuracy. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for perfect baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
- The cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, place the cake on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice for about 10-15 seconds on medium power; check to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for around 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Lemon Velvet Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Adjustments may be necessary.
How do I achieve a vibrant color in my frosting?
Add yellow food coloring gradually until you reach your desired shade. Just remember that a little goes a long way!
What can I substitute if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can mix one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with one cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of softened cream cheese?
It’s best to use softened cream cheese as it helps create a smooth frosting without lumps.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding fresh berries or adjusting the sweetness of the frosting. Give it a try, and enjoy the bright flavors that make any occasion special!
Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the bright and refreshing flavors of this Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, a dessert that brings sunshine to any occasion. This cake features light and fluffy layers infused with zesty lemon zest and extracts, complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for birthdays, tea parties, or a delightful spring gathering, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results, even for novice bakers. Elevate your dessert table with this cheerful treat that promises to leave everyone craving more!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening
- 2 large eggs
- 1–2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon extract
- 1 heaping tsp lemon zest
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar
- 1/3 cup hot lemon water (2 tbsp lemon juice mixed with 1/3 cup hot water)
- 4–6 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp lemon extract
- 1 1/2 heaping tsp lemon zest
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tsp lemon juice (if needed)
- 4–5 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat together granulated sugar, vegetable oil, butter-flavored shortening, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon zest until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Alternately mix the dry ingredients with buttermilk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Mix together white vinegar and hot lemon water. Stir this mixture into your batter along with food coloring if desired.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the centers are just set.
- Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy. Then mix in vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon zest, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Once cooled, frost each layer of your cake with the luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. Garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
