Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that brings sunshine to any occasion. Its fluffy texture and vibrant flavor make it perfect for birthdays, spring celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence. The combination of soft cake layers paired with creamy lemon frosting creates a refreshing dessert experience that stands out at any table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The bright lemon notes provide a tangy sweetness that is perfect for spring and summer.
• Moist Texture: The unique blend of ingredients ensures that every bite is tender and moist, making it hard to resist.
• Versatile Occasion: Ideal for various events, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for novice bakers.
• Showstopper Appearance: The beautiful layers and creamy frosting will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your lemon velvet cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly and efficiently.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for easy organization of your ingredients during preparation.
• Cooling rack: It promotes even cooling of the cakes, preventing sogginess while enhancing texture.

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. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flours, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, butter-flavored shortening, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon zest until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined—you want to avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Add Vinegar Mixture

Combine white vinegar and hot lemon water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the batter along with food coloring if you choose to use it.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

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

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make Frosting

For the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in vanilla extract, lemon extract, zest, and powdered sugar until smooth. Adjust consistency with lemon juice if necessary.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

After cakes are completely cooled, frost each layer generously with your luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. If desired, garnish with fresh lemon slices for an extra touch!

Enjoy your delicious homemade Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this cheerful dessert.

Coffee Pairing

• Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of espresso complement the bright citrus notes of the cake beautifully.
• Cappuccino: A creamy cappuccino balances the sweetness of the frosting and adds a comforting touch.

Fruit Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a pop of color and freshness that pairs wonderfully with lemon.
• Lemon Slices: Thin lemon slices not only look appealing but also enhance the lemon flavor of the cake.

Ice Cream Options

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic vanilla ice cream offers a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon frosting.
• Lemon Sorbet: For an extra citrus kick, serve with lemon sorbet to keep things refreshing.

Presentation Ideas

• Cake Stands: Using a decorative cake stand elevates your presentation and makes it more festive.
• Edible Flowers: Garnishing with edible flowers can add elegance and a splash of color.

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How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Achieving perfection with your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is easier than you think. Here are some essential tips for success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs, butter, and citrus zest will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and cream cheese to reach room temperature for smoother batter and frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Ensure your cake layers are completely cool before applying frosting to prevent melting.
• Adjust Sweetness as Needed: Taste your frosting and adjust the powdered sugar or lemon juice for desired sweetness and tang.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the cake’s richness.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: These savory skewers can complement the sweetness of the cake without overwhelming it.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a fresh, earthy flavor that works well alongside dessert.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad featuring cucumbers and herbs pairs nicely without being too heavy.
5. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits enhances the citrus theme while offering a healthy option.
6. Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie, which provide a creamy balance against the tartness of the frosting.
7. Savory Tartines: Toasted bread topped with ricotta or herbed butter gives an inviting bite that complements dessert time perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can be delightful, but certain pitfalls can ruin your experience. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and buttermilk can lead to a dense cake. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a tough texture. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy cake.
• Skipping the zest: Lemon zest adds flavor that enhances the cake. Don’t skip it; use fresh zest for the best results.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is precise. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate amounts of flour and sugar.
• Opening the oven door too soon: This can cause the cake to collapse. Wait until at least halfway through the baking time before checking on it.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious cake, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of low-fat?

Yes, using regular cream cheese will give you a richer frosting, enhancing the overall taste of your Lemon Velvet Cake.

How do I make my cake even more lemony?

You can add more lemon zest or increase the amount of lemon extract in both the cake batter and frosting for an extra citrus punch.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

For optimal freshness, store your leftover Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How long does it take to make this cake?

The total time to prepare and bake this delightful cake is approximately 70 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for any occasion. Its bright flavor and soft texture make it an instant favorite. Feel free to customize it by adding berries or different extracts if you like! Enjoy baking!

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Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Tina
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the blissful taste of our Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting – a delightful dessert that captures the essence of sunshine. This cake boasts soft, fluffy layers infused with zesty lemon flavor, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy lemon cream cheese frosting. Ideal for any celebration or as a sweet treat to brighten your day, this cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Elevate your baking game with this refreshing and vibrant citrus dessert that will leave everyone craving more.

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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 (for frosting)
• 1 1/2 tsp lemon extract (for frosting)
• 1 1/2 heaping tsp lemon zest (for frosting)
• 4–5 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
• 1–2 tsp lemon juice (for frosting if needed)
• 4–5 drops yellow food coloring (optional for frosting)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flours, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, butter-flavored shortening, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon zest until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined—you want to avoid overmixing.
5. Combine white vinegar and hot lemon water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the batter along with food coloring if you choose to use it.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 25–30 minutes or until the centers are just set.
7. Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
8. For the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in vanilla extract, lemon extract, zest, and powdered sugar until smooth. Adjust consistency with lemon juice if necessary.
9. After cakes are completely cooled, frost each layer generously with your luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. If desired, garnish with fresh lemon slices for an extra touch!

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 32g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg