Quick and Easy Lemon Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lemon cake stands out for its light, airy texture and vibrant citrus flavor. The combination of lemon juice and zest infuses the cake with a refreshing taste, while the addition of buttermilk ensures moisture and tenderness. It's perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 2 tablespoons lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup buttermilk

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time.

4. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Servings: 8

Variations

• Lemon Glaze: For added sweetness and shine, drizzle a lemon glaze over the cooled cake. To make the glaze, combine 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons lemon juice until smooth, then pour over the cake.

• Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: Incorporate 1 tablespoon poppy seeds into the batter for a delightful crunch and a nod to classic lemon-poppy seed bread.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigeration: If you've added a glaze or frosting, refrigerate the cake to maintain freshness.

• Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

How can I make this cake dairy-free?

To make the cake dairy-free, substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

Can I use lemon juice from a bottle instead of fresh lemons?

While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute in a pinch.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk in this recipe?

Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness to the cake. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I add frosting to this cake?

Yes, this cake pairs wonderfully with cream cheese frosting or a simple powdered sugar glaze.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.

Can I use a different type of citrus?

Yes, you can substitute lemon with orange or lime zest and juice for a different citrus flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake the batter in two loaf pans or a larger pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, a hand mixer works perfectly fine for this recipe.

Can I make mini versions of this cake?

Yes, you can pour the batter into mini loaf pans or muffin tins. Adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes.

How can I add more lemon flavor?

Incorporate lemon extract into the batter or glaze for an extra burst of lemon flavor.

Conclusion

This Quick and Easy Lemon Cake is a versatile and delightful dessert that's sure to brighten any occasion. Its simplicity and refreshing flavor make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether enjoyed plain, glazed, or with a dollop of frosting, it's a treat that never disappoints.