Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that brightens any occasion. With its moist texture and tangy frosting, it’s perfect for birthdays, spring gatherings, or just a sunny afternoon. The combination of fresh lemon flavor and creamy frosting makes this cake a standout dessert that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Citrus Flavor: The lemon extracts and zest infuse the cake with a refreshing taste that truly shines.
• Moist and Luscious: Thanks to the buttermilk and careful mixing, each slice stays tender and moist.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether for a celebration or an everyday treat, this cake fits right in at any gathering.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers will find success with this recipe.
• Beautiful Presentation: Frosted with creamy lemon goodness, this cake is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your delicious Lemon Velvet Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch cake pans: These provide the perfect depth for even baking and beautiful layers.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures fluffy batter by thoroughly blending ingredients.
• Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.

Ingredients

This sunny lemon velvet cake is pure citrus bliss! The tender cake layers and luscious lemon cream cheese frosting make for the ultimate taste of springtime.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cake flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening
• 2 large eggs
• 1-2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon extract
• 1 heaping tsp lemon zest
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 tsp white vinegar
• 1/3 cup hot lemon water (2 tbsp lemon juice mixed with 1/3 cup hot water)
• 4-6 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
• 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp lemon extract
• 1 1/2 heaping tsp lemon zest
• 4-5 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tsp lemon juice (if needed)
• 4-5 drops yellow food coloring (optional)

How to Make Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
Cake flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together:
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil
Butter-flavored shortening
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon zest
until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Alternate mixing the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Add Vinegar Mixture

Mix white vinegar with hot lemon water in a small bowl. Stir this into the batter along with food coloring if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until centers are just set.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
Softened cream cheese
Softened butter
until fluffy. Gradually mix in extracts, lemon zest, and powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 9: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled, frost each layer of your Lemon Velvet Cake with the creamy lemon frosting. Garnish with lemon slices if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is as delightful as making it. Here are some thoughtful serving suggestions to enhance your cake experience.

For a Refreshing Touch

• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to add a burst of freshness.
• Mint Leaves: Garnish each slice with fresh mint for a pop of color and flavor.

Pair with Beverages

• Iced Tea: A glass of sweetened iced tea complements the citrus notes perfectly.
• Lemonade: For an extra lemony experience, serve alongside a chilled glass of lemonade.

Display Options

• Cake Stand: Present your cake on an elegant cake stand for a stunning display.
• Platter Arrangement: Slice and arrange on a decorative platter for casual gatherings.

Special Occasions

• Birthday Celebration: Add candles for birthdays or special events, turning the cake into a centerpiece.
• Picnic Treat: Cut into smaller squares for easy serving at outdoor gatherings.

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How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially eggs and cream cheese, are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and baking powder helps to aerate them, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
• Do Not Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to prevent a dense cake; overmixing can lead to toughness.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake during baking; ovens vary. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.
• Cool Cakes Completely Before Frosting: Allow cakes to cool fully on wire racks before applying frosting to avoid melting.
• Taste Test Your Frosting: Adjust sweetness or acidity in the frosting by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your lemon velvet cake can elevate the whole meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors.

1. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing frozen treat that echoes the lemony flavors of the cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the frosting.
3. Mini Quiches: Savory quiches provide a delicious contrast and make for an excellent brunch pairing.
4. Cucumber Sandwiches: Light and refreshing, these sandwiches make a perfect finger food option alongside cake.
5. Roasted Veggies: The earthy flavors of roasted vegetables balance out the sweetness of dessert nicely.
6. Cheese Platter: Pair mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese with crackers for an elegant touch alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements ensure consistent results.
• Ignoring the Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off.
• Using Stale Ingredients: Check expiration dates on baking powder and soda. Fresh ingredients are key to achieving the best rise and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • How long: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.

Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• • How long: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Wrap well in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cake on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use regular butter instead of shortening?

You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of butter, but it may slightly change the texture of your cake.

What is the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater for easy zesting. Ensure not to include the bitter white pith underneath.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it has xanthan gum if needed.

How do I store leftover frosting?

Keep leftover lemon cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Rewhip before using again.

Can I add other flavors?

Absolutely! You can mix in berries or switch up extracts like almond for unique variations of this delightful cake.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding fruit or changing up the frosting flavors. It’s perfect for spring celebrations or any time you crave something sweet and refreshing! Give it a try, and let your creativity shine!

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Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Meg
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing delight of Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting! This vibrant, moist cake is infused with bright citrus flavors, making it perfect for birthdays, spring gatherings, or simply enjoying on a sunny afternoon. The luscious lemon cream cheese frosting adds a creamy touch that beautifully complements the fluffy cake layers. With its easy-to-follow recipe, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert that dazzles both the eyes and taste buds.

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Ingredients

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• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cake flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp lemon extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
• Zest of 2 lemons

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease two 9-inch cake pans.
2. In one bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, lemon extract, and lemon zest until light and fluffy.
4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture until just combined.
5. Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes until set.
6. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
7. For frosting: beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy; gradually mix in extracts and powdered sugar until smooth.
8. Frost cooled cakes as desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 40mg