A Lemon Cream Cake is a delicious, zesty dessert with a rich, creamy texture. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want something light yet indulgent. Here’s a recipe for a lemon cream cake that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or your preferred sweetener)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free version)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar (or sweetener of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar (or powdered sweetener)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1-2 teaspoons milk (or cream) to adjust the consistency
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment paper).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing gently after each addition until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Make the Lemon Cream Filling:
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
- Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form and the cream holds its shape. Set aside.
3. Make the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with the lemon juice.
- If the glaze is too thick, add milk or cream 1 teaspoon at a time until you achieve a smooth, drizzle-able consistency.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter.
- Spread the lemon cream filling evenly over the first layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down.
- Drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve! Garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh berries, if desired.
Tips:
- You can make the cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- If you want a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of lemon juice or zest in both the cake and cream filling.
- For an extra luxurious touch, add a bit of lemon curd between the layers along with the cream filling.
This Lemon Cream Cake is perfect for any celebration or as a delightful dessert after dinner. Enjoy the balance of sweet and tangy flavors in every bite!