Introduction
Hey there, bakers! Ready to transform simple ingredients into a sunshine-y lemon cake that’ll make everyone say “wow”? This Velvety Lemon Bliss Cake is incredibly easy to make, yet tastes like it came from a fancy bakery. Get ready for a burst of bright lemon flavor in every bite – perfect for any occasion!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The lemon zest and juice add a vibrant zing, while the creamy frosting balances it all out beautifully. It’s also incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner bakers, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!
Key Ingredients
🍋 2 cups all-purpose flour
🥚 4 large eggs
🥛 1 cup milk
🧈 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
🍯 1 cup granulated sugar
🍋 1/2 cup lemon juice
🍋 2 tablespoons lemon zest
🥄 1 teaspoon baking powder
🥄 1 teaspoon baking soda
🧂 1/2 teaspoon salt
💜 1 cup powdered sugar, for frosting
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This helps prevent sticking and ensures a clean release.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is where your electric mixer becomes your best friend!
3️⃣ Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Mmm, that fresh lemon smell!
4️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don’t overmix!
6️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7️⃣ Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
8️⃣ While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by whisking together the powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Add more lemon juice if needed to reach your desired consistency.
9️⃣ Once the cake is completely cool, frost it evenly with the lemon frosting.
Handy Tips
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor!
- Room temperature butter and eggs help create a lighter, fluffier cake.
- Don’t overmix the batter, or your cake might be tough.
- A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
Heat Control
Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures that the cake bakes evenly and doesn’t burn. If your oven runs hot, you might need to reduce the temperature slightly and check for doneness a few minutes early.
Crunch Factor
This cake is delightfully moist and tender, not crunchy. The focus is on the soft, velvety texture and bright lemon flavor.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
🌟 For extra lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract along with the zest and juice.
🌟 Use a hand mixer for a quicker and easier creaming process.
🌟 For a fun twist, add 1/2 cup of blueberries to the batter before baking.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This cake is perfect for gifting! Wrap individual slices in pretty cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or bake it in a smaller pan and present it in a decorative cake carrier.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Raspberry Lemon Bliss: Add 1 cup of fresh raspberries to the batter.
🌟 Strawberry Lemon Delight: Fold in 1 cup of chopped strawberries.
🌟 Coconut Lemon Dream: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter.
🌟 Orange Lemon Zest: Substitute 1 tablespoon of orange zest for 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for a citrusy twist!
Troubleshooting
- Cake is dry: This could be due to overbaking. Next time, check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
- Cake is gummy: This could be due to underbaking. Next time, bake for a few more minutes.
- Frosting is too thick: Add a tablespoon or two of lemon juice to thin it out.
- Frosting is too thin: Add a tablespoon or two of powdered sugar to thicken it.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pan? A: Yes, you can use an 8-inch round cake pan or a bundt pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cake a day or two in advance and frost it just before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have lemon zest? A: You can still make the cake without it, but the lemon flavor will be less intense.
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting.
Q: How many people does this recipe serve? A: This recipe makes a 9×13 inch cake, which serves approximately 12-16 people.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this Velvety Lemon Bliss Cake as much as we do! It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, from family gatherings to a simple weeknight dessert. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media! Happy baking!