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Moist Lemon Cake with Lemon Icing

Moist Lemon Cake with Lemon Icing

A moist and tender lemon cake bursting with fresh citrus flavor, topped with a luscious, glossy lemon icing. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, combining a bright lemon zest and juice in a balanced, soft crumb, finished with a sweet and tangy glaze.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • Zest of 2 fresh lemons
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Icing Ingredients

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes, to create a tender crumb.
  4. Add Eggs and Lemon Zest: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest to infuse the batter with fragrant oils.
  5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Lower the mixer speed to low and add the flour mixture and milk alternately in three parts, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
  6. Add Fresh Lemon Juice: Gently fold in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor without overmixing.
  7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the surface, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Prepare the Lemon Icing: While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar and enough fresh lemon juice to create a pourable glaze.
  9. Ice the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the lemon icing evenly over the top, allowing some to drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to prevent toughness.
  • Always use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Perform the toothpick test at minimum baking time, as oven temperatures vary.
  • Apply icing only when the cake has fully cooled to maintain icing texture and shine.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon cake, moist lemon cake, lemon icing, lemon dessert, citrus cake, easy lemon cake, homemade lemon cake