Zesty Lemon Cake with Luscious Lemon Curd Frosting

Name: Lemon Cake with Lemon Curd Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Citrus
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 4 large eggs (room temperature); 1 tbsp lemon zest; ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting); 1 cup lemon curd

Published: March 23, 2025

by mydishtoday

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This zesty lemon cake is simple to prepare and incredibly rewarding
The bright flavors burst in your mouth, making it an instant favorite at gatherings
Its cheerful yellow color is sure to brighten any dessert table and it’s versatile enough for birthdays or casual get-togethers

Baking this delight has led to many family giggles as they tried to sneak bites while I was decorating it—trust me; you’ll want to keep this one close.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-purpose Flour: A staple in most baking recipes; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter beautifully; use fine sugar for a smoother texture.
Baking Powder: This will help your cake rise perfectly—fresh powder is key!
Salt: Just a pinch elevates flavors and balances sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened for easy creaming; it adds rich flavor too.
Eggs: These provide structure; room temperature eggs mix better into the batter.
Lemon Zest: Fresh zest enhances the lemon flavor; avoid white pith for bitterness.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice really brings out that tangy zing we love!
Powdered Sugar: Needed for the frosting; sift before using for a smooth finish.
Lemon Curd: Store-bought or homemade; it’s the star topping for our luscious frosting!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.

Mix Dry Ingredients Together

In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of ingredients throughout your cake.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and airy!

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Mix in lemon zest and juice for that delightful citrus flavor which fills your kitchen with happiness.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternating with milk (or buttermilk). Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix or you’ll lose that light texture!

Bake Your Cake Layers

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Create Your Frosting

While cakes cool, whip together powdered sugar with soft butter until creamy. Add in cooled lemon curd gradually until well blended—this creates an irresistibly tangy frosting.

Frost Your Cakes

Once cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top before adding the second layer, then frost generously around the sides too.

Add Finishing Touches

Garnish your frosted masterpiece with additional lemon zest or even some fresh berries for visual appeal! Cut into slices and watch smiles emerge as guests take their first bite!

Enjoy every bit of your homemade Lemon Cake with Lemon Curd Frosting! You’ve earned that slice after all your hard work!

You Must Know

The zesty brightness of this lemon cake will make your taste buds dance
Pair it with fresh berries for a burst of flavor
Remember, the secret is to use fresh lemons for the best results
The smell of baking cake will fill your kitchen with joy

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by creaming butter and sugar for a fluffy texture, then alternate adding dry ingredients and wet ingredients until smooth.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add poppy seeds for extra texture or switch lemon zest with lime for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and better rise
Avoid overmixing the batter; stop as soon as everything is combined
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting

Baking this lemon cake reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where her laughter blended with the scent of citrusy goodness. It was pure happiness!

FAQ

What can I substitute if I don’t have lemons?

Use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemons offer the best flavor.

Can I freeze lemon cake with lemon curd frosting?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.

How can I enhance the lemon flavor?

Add more lemon zest or a splash of limoncello for an extra kick!

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Zesty Lemon Cake with Luscious Lemon Curd Frosting

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Essential Ingredients