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. Its tender layers and zesty frosting will captivate your senses and bring a taste of spring to your table. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sunny afternoon, this cake stands out with its vibrant flavor and moist texture. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser that radiates sunshine.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and lemon extract creates a refreshing citrus taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll find this recipe approachable even for beginner bakers.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday or a summer picnic, this cake fits right in.
• Beautiful Presentation: The soft yellow color and creamy frosting make it visually appealing on any dessert table.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk and careful mixing, each slice stays deliciously moist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth experience when making your Lemon Velvet Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans (9-inch)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes beating the sugar and butter easier, ensuring a fluffy batter.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep ingredients organized during preparation for efficient mixing.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls for thorough ingredient incorporation.

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.

For the Cake

• 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)

For the Frosting

• 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. While it’s heating, grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans. This ensures that your cakes release easily after baking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Make sure everything is well combined before moving on.

Step 3: Cream Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients while alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add Vinegar and Hot Water Mixture

Combine white vinegar with hot lemon water in a separate bowl. Stir this mixture into your batter along with yellow food coloring if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the centers are set. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Step 7: Cool Cakes Properly

Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add:
Powdered sugar, then mix in:
Vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon zest, and adjust consistency with lemon juice if necessary.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, frost each layer generously with your creamy lemon frosting. Optionally garnish with fresh lemon slices for an extra touch!

With these steps complete, your homemade Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is ready to impress! Enjoy every zesty bite!

How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any occasion. Here are some delightful suggestions to make your dessert experience even better.

For a Classic Dessert Experience

• Serve with fresh berries: A side of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the tangy lemon flavors perfectly.

For Special Occasions

• Garnish with lemon slices: Thinly sliced lemons on top not only look stunning but also enhance the citrus flavor.
• Add mint leaves: Fresh mint leaves can provide a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

For Afternoon Tea

• Enjoy with herbal tea: Pair your cake with chamomile or mint tea for a light and relaxing afternoon treat.
• Serve alongside finger sandwiches: Light sandwiches made with cucumber or smoked salmon can balance the sweetness of the cake.

For Celebratory Gatherings

• Offer champagne or prosecco: The bubbly nature of sparkling wine pairs wonderfully with the zesty notes in the cake.
• Create a dessert platter: Include mini desserts like macarons and lemon bars for variety and visual appeal.

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How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best results with your Lemon Velvet Cake, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your baking skills.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like eggs and butter should be at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting helps prevent lumps and creates a lighter cake by aerating the flour.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to ensure a tender crumb; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Check for doneness carefully: Use a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
• Cool layers completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures easy spreading.
• Adjust sweetness as needed: Taste your frosting as you go; you can add lemon juice if you want more tanginess.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Velvet Cake can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some perfect accompaniments.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers dressed in vinegar provide a refreshing contrast that complements lemon flavors.
3. Caprese Salad: Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a savory option that pairs well with sweet desserts.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers for an elegant touch.
5. Lemon Sorbet: This light, frozen treat echoes lemon flavors and cleanses the palate nicely after rich cake.
6. Savory Scones: Cheddar or herb scones provide a nice counterbalance to dessert by adding some savory elements.
7. Spinach Quiche: A slice of quiche is hearty enough to serve alongside dessert while remaining light enough not to overpower it.
8. Grilled Asparagus: The charred flavor from asparagus complements citrus while providing a healthy option on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Using the wrong flour: Make sure to use both all-purpose and cake flour as specified. Substituting might change the cake’s texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to ensure a light, fluffy cake. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision. Inaccurate measurements can affect the outcome.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide.
• Ignoring flavor adjustments: Taste your frosting and adjust lemon juice or zest if needed. A little extra tang can elevate the overall flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I make Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

Can I use different citrus for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute lemon zest and juice with orange or lime for a different flavor profile.

What makes Lemon Velvet Cake different from regular lemon cake?

Lemon velvet cake is typically lighter and has a tender crumb due to the combination of flours used.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I customize the frosting?

Definitely! You could add more lemon zest or even mix in some berries for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. Its bright citrus flavor makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite fruits or adjusting the sweetness of the frosting. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Amanda
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, a perfect treat for any celebration or sunny afternoon. This cake boasts tender, moist layers infused with vibrant lemon zest and a creamy, tangy frosting that elevates its flavor to new heights. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a picnic, or simply enjoying a slice at home, this cake is sure to captivate your taste buds and brighten your day. With its inviting aroma and stunning appearance, it’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings the essence of spring to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and prepare two greased and floured 9-inch cake pans.
2. In one bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, oil, and butter-flavored shortening. Beat in eggs, then mix in vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon zest until fluffy.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients alternating with buttermilk until just combined.
5. Mix white vinegar with hot lemon water and stir into the batter along with food coloring if desired.
6. Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool cakes before frosting with the cream cheese mixture made by beating softened cream cheese and butter with powdered sugar and lemon extracts.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg