Welcome to the world of citrusy delight! Our Lemon Cream Cheese Cake is a harmonious blend of tangy lemon and creamy goodness, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon teas, or whenever you crave a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients: Bringing Zest to Life
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions: Crafting the Lemony Masterpiece
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease/flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
- Combine and Bake: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frosting the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, generously frost the top with the creamy lemon-infused frosting.
Tips and Variations
Decorative Delights:
Sprinkle additional lemon zest or a few thinly sliced lemon rounds on top of the frosted cake for a beautiful presentation.
Lemon Curd Filling:
For an extra burst of lemon flavor, consider adding a layer of lemon curd between the cake layers before frosting.
Storing Leftovers:
Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to retain its freshness. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Conclusion: Share the Zesty Joy
Indulge in the zesty goodness of this Lemon Cream Cheese Cake and let it brighten your day with its citrusy charm. Share this delightful recipe with friends and family to spread the joy of baking. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes that turn ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Happy baking!