Soft and Zesty Lemon Cake That’s Light, Moist, and Glazed to Perfection
If sunshine were a dessert, it would be this lemon cake. Bright, fluffy, and full of citrus flavor, it’s the kind of cake that feels refreshing and cozy at the same time. Whether you’re baking for spring brunch, a birthday, or just to bring something sweet to the table, this lemon cake is light enough to eat anytime—and flavorful enough to remember.
Why This Lemon Cake Works
This cake is tender and buttery with just the right amount of lemon zest and juice to give it that unmistakable zing. A simple lemon glaze soaks into the top for extra flavor and a delicate finish. It’s sweet, tangy, and so satisfying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk or plain Greek yogurt
For the Lemon Glaze:
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch pan or loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in lemon zest, juice, and vanilla.
4. Combine
Add half of the dry ingredients, then the buttermilk or yogurt, then the remaining dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
5. Bake
Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes before glazing.
6. Make and Add the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Pour over warm or cooled cake and spread evenly. Let the glaze set for 15 minutes before slicing.
Tips for the Best Lemon Cake
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor
- Add a pinch of turmeric if you want a more vibrant yellow color naturally
- Double the recipe for a layer cake or sheet pan version
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with berries and whipped cream
- Serve chilled for a refreshing twist
- Dust with extra lemon zest for a pretty finish
Final Thoughts
This lemon cake is soft, zesty, and everything you want in a citrus dessert. It’s unfussy but elegant, simple but striking—basically, the kind of cake you’ll find yourself baking more than once.
Stick around—every visit tastes better than the last at The Buttered Bliss.
