Go Back
When it comes to desserts, few flavors can brighten a gathering quite like lemon. The delightful tartness and refreshing qualities of this vibrant citrus fruit have made it a beloved ingredient in sweet treats across the globe. From tangy lemon bars to luscious lemon meringue pie, lemon desserts offer a unique and invigorating flavor that can elevate any occasion. Among these delightful options, a light and zesty lemon cake stands out as a favorite, perfect for birthdays, picnics, or simply a sweet indulgence during the warmer months.

Delicious Lemon Cake to Die For

Brighten up your dessert table with this Heavenly Zesty Lemon Cake! Perfect for any occasion, this light and fluffy cake delivers a refreshing burst of citrus flavor that everyone will love. With simple ingredients like fresh lemon juice, buttermilk, and a touch of vanilla, you can create a delightful treat that’s as enjoyable to bake as it is to eat. Follow our step-by-step guide and impress your family and friends with this irresistible cake!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

½ cup buttermilk

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Zest of 2 lemons

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Optional: Fresh berries and mint leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

      Blend Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

        Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix!

          Pour into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.

            Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden.

              Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edge and invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

                Serve: Once the cake is completely cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves if desired. Slice and serve this delightful lemon cake to family and friends.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 8 servings