Indulge in the ultimate citrus delight with this Lemon Velvet Cake! This cake is incredibly moist, tangy, and topped with a luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any celebration or simply as a refreshing treat, this cake combines the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons with a smooth, velvety texture that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). 🥵
- Prepare the cake pans. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal. 🧈📃
- Mix dry ingredients. In a large bowl, sift together cake flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. 🥄
- Combine wet ingredients. In another bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. 🥣🍋
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. 🚜
- Divide the batter. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. 🧁
- Bake the cakes. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 🕰️
- Cool the cakes. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. ❄️
- Prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and creamy. 🍥
- Frost the cake. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and spread frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Use an offset spatula to create a smooth finish. 🧁🍰
- Decorate the cake. For an extra touch, add decorative swirls of frosting around the edges and top with lemon slices. 🍋🎨
- Chill the cake. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the frosting to set. ❄️
Notes:
- Cake Flour Substitution: If you don’t have cake flour, you can make your own by measuring out 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, removing 5 tablespoons, and replacing them with 5 tablespoons of cornstarch. Sift the mixture well.
- Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest. Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same vibrant taste.
- Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before using.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it.
Q: Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works well for cupcakes. Adjust the baking time to 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Q: How should I store the cake?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
This Lemon Velvet Cake is a showstopper with its bright lemon flavor and creamy frosting. Whether for a birthday, special occasion, or just because, it’s sure to impress and delight anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy this delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
