Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This delicious Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat for any occasion. With its tender cake layers and zesty frosting, this cake embodies the essence of spring. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sunny afternoon, the bright lemon flavor offers a refreshing twist that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and extract gives this cake an irresistible citrus burst.
• Moist Texture: Buttermilk and oil keep the cake incredibly moist and fluffy.
• Versatile Frosting: The lemon cream cheese frosting is easy to spread and adds a creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the cake.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday or a simple family gathering, this cake is sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your baking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch cake pans: These are ideal for creating perfectly shaped layers that bake evenly.
• Electric mixer: A must-have for achieving light and fluffy batter without much effort.
• Wire cooling rack: Helps cakes 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.

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 Lemon Cream Cheese 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. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to ensure easy release after baking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Make sure no lumps remain in the mixture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together:
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil
Butter-flavored shortening
Add in:
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon zest
Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined to avoid over-mixing.

Step 5: Add Vinegar and Hot Lemon Water

In a separate bowl, mix white vinegar with hot lemon water. Stir this into your batter along with any food coloring if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

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

Step 7: Cool Cakes

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

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in vanilla extract, lemon extract, 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 cream cheese frosting. Feel free to garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired!

Now you have created a stunning Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting—perfect for any celebration or sweet treat!

How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This delightful lemon velvet cake is perfect for any occasion, and serving it just right can elevate its charm. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries complement the citrus flavor beautifully.
• Citrus Slices: Add lemon or orange slices for a vibrant touch that matches the cake’s flavor.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Light and Airy: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a creamy texture that pairs well with the zesty cake.

Decorate with Edible Flowers

• Pretty Presentation: Use edible flowers like pansies or violets to add a floral element to your dessert table.

Accompany with Tea or Coffee

• Perfect Beverage Pairing: A cup of Earl Grey tea or freshly brewed coffee enhances the flavors of the lemon cake.

Create a Layered Dessert

• In a Glass: Layer crumbled cake, lemon curd, and whipped cream in a glass for an elegant presentation.

Garnish with Zest

• Citrusy Finish: Sprinkle extra lemon zest on top for added color and a burst of fresh flavor.

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How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your lemon velvet cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter that bakes evenly.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for the right texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure you’re baking at the perfect temperature.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting off into a gooey mess.
• Add Zest to Cake Layers and Frosting: For an extra punch of lemon flavor, use zest in both components.

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

Pairing sides with your lemon velvet cake can enhance its enjoyment. Here are some delightful options that complement this dessert perfectly.

1. Lemon Meringue Pie: The tartness of this classic pie pairs beautifully with the sweetness of lemon velvet cake.
2. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: The tropical flavors bring a refreshing twist alongside the citrus notes of your main dessert.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich frosting.
4. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies add texture and a hint of tropical flavor that complements the cake.
5. Berry Compote: A warm berry sauce brings sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the frosting.
6. Lemon Sorbet: The cool, zesty sorbet is an excellent palate cleanser after enjoying your slice of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong flour: Stick to all-purpose and cake flour as listed. Using only one type can affect texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Use precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar. Too much can alter the cake’s moisture and sweetness.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting the frosting and makes it easier to spread.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a better mixture. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps in your batter.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lemon Velvet Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover the cake with foil, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slice in intervals of 10 seconds until warm, but avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slice in a covered skillet on low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Lemon Velvet Cake different?

Lemon Velvet Cake is lighter and softer than traditional lemon cakes due to its unique blend of flours and buttermilk. This combination creates a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Can I use regular frosting instead of cream cheese?

While you can use regular frosting, lemon cream cheese frosting adds a rich flavor that perfectly complements the lemon velvet cake.

How can I customize my Lemon Velvet Cake?

Consider adding poppy seeds or blueberries for extra texture and flavor. You could also experiment with different citrus zest for varied tastes.

How should I store leftover Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! The vibrant color and flavor makes it perfect for celebrations like birthdays, weddings, or springtime gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it as-is or customize it with various add-ins. Try this delightful recipe today; it’s sure to bring joy to any occasion!