🍋 Irresistible Homemade Lemon Cake: A Zesty Delight in 8 Easy Steps

3️⃣ Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4️⃣ Add Lemon Flavor

1. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The batter may look slightly curdled—this is normal.

5️⃣ Combine Wet and Dry

1. Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with dry ingredients.
2. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.

6️⃣ Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

7️⃣ Prepare the Lemon Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. For extra zing, sprinkle lemon zest on top.

8️⃣ Serve and Enjoy!

1. Slice and serve. Pair with whipped cream or fresh berries for an added touch.

🍋 Recipe Variations

• Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: Stir 2 tbsp poppy seeds into the batter.
• Lemon Blueberry Cake: Fold 1 cup fresh blueberries into the batter before baking.
• Vegan Lemon Cake: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and buttermilk with plant-based milk + lemon juice.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

2. How do I store the lemon cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

3. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

4. Can I make cupcakes instead?
Absolutely. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes.

💡 Notes

• Buttermilk Substitute: Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• For a Stronger Lemon Flavor: Add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest.

🧾 Nutritional Info (Per Slice)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Sugar: 28g

🎉 Conclusion

This Irresistible Homemade Lemon Cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—zesty, sweet, and incredibly moist. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something citrusy, this recipe is your go-to. With its tangy lemon glaze and soft crumb, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Happy baking! 🍰✨