Description
Brighten your day with this moist lemon cake bursting with fresh lemon zest and juice. Topped with a tangy, creamy glaze, this cake is perfect for spring and summer celebrations or anytime you crave a refreshing dessert.
Who is This Recipe For?
Ideal for:
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Lemon lovers seeking a tender, flavorful cake
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Home bakers wanting a straightforward, crowd-pleasing dessert
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Anyone looking for a light, refreshing sweet treat
Why It’s Great
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Moist, tender crumb from buttermilk and butter
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Vibrant lemon flavor with fresh zest and juice
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Simple glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish
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Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or afternoon tea
Ingredients
Cake:
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2 ½ cups cake flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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Pinch of salt
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Zest and juice of 3 lemons (about 3 tbsp zest)
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¾ cup buttermilk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
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12 tbsp softened unsalted butter
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3 large eggs + 1 yolk (room temp)
Glaze:
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3 cups confectioners’ sugar
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3 tbsp lemon juice
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2 tbsp buttermilk
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease 9×13-inch pan.
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Whisk flour, baking powder, soda, and salt. Set aside.
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Mix buttermilk, lemon juice, and vanilla.
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Beat sugar with lemon zest until fragrant; reserve ¼ cup.
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Cream butter into remaining sugar mixture until fluffy.
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Add eggs gradually.
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Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk until smooth.
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Pour batter into pan and bake 25–35 mins until golden.
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Cool 10 mins; whisk glaze ingredients.
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Spread glaze over warm cake; sprinkle reserved sugar mix.
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Cool 2+ hours before serving.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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9×13-inch baking pan
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Electric mixer (optional but helpful)
Storage
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Room Temp: Covered, 2 days
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Fridge: Up to 5 days in airtight container
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Freezer: Wrapped well, up to 2 months
FAQ
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Use milk with a splash of vinegar as a substitute.
Can I bake in a round pan?
Yes, adjust baking time accordingly.
Can I add poppy seeds?
Absolutely! Add 1–2 tablespoons for texture.
Conclusion
This moist lemon cake is a fresh, zesty treat that’s easy to make and loved by all. Its bright flavor and creamy glaze make it perfect for any occasion.
