When life hands you lemons, turn them into Lemon Velvet Cake! This stunning dessert combines a moist, tender crumb with the vibrant, zesty flavor of fresh lemon, delivering a burst of citrus in every bite.
Perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, it’s topped with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting that takes it to the next level. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting friends, or simply indulging in something delightful, this cake is a refreshing burst of sunshine for any table.
The secret to its heavenly texture lies in the use of cake flour and buttermilk, which create an incredibly tender crumb that almost dissolves with each bite. Fresh lemon juice and zest infuse the batter with a lively citrus flavor, making every slice a bright and refreshing treat. Topped with tangy cream cheese frosting, the cake’s sweetness is perfectly balanced by its rich, creamy finish and a delicate hint of lemon.
Here’s how you can bake this delicious bright and buttery treat at home!
Recipe: Sunshine Lemon Velvet Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons lemon extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Cream the Butter, Oil, and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step creates the foundation for a soft and airy cake texture.
4. Add the Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon extract to infuse the batter with bright, citrusy flavor.
5. Combine with Flour and Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. For a vibrant lemon color, mix in a few drops of yellow food coloring, if desired.
6. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
For the Frosting:
1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and butter until the texture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, blending well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor with a tangy, citrusy note.
2. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost each layer generously, stacking them carefully to form a beautiful three-layer cake. Spread the frosting evenly across the top and sides using a spatula for a smooth finish. Garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest to add a pop of color and extra flavor.
A Slice of Joy
Lemon Velvet Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simple pleasures in every bite. The light, velvety layers paired with the tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting create a cake that’s as delightful to eat as it is to share.
With its vibrant citrus flavor and smooth, creamy finish, it’s sure to leave everyone coming back for more. So, grab your apron, zest those lemons, and prepare to bake a cake that’s as uplifting and bright as a sunny day!
Leave a comment