Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and refreshing dessert that brightens up any occasion. Its fluffy cake layers paired with a tangy, creamy frosting create a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a spring gathering, or simply treating yourself, this cake offers a burst of citrus bliss. The vibrant lemon taste and rich cream cheese frosting are sure to impress your guests and make any moment feel special.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest infuses the cake with an irresistible citrus flavor.
• Moist Texture: This recipe ensures a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, thanks to ingredients like buttermilk and oil.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or as an afternoon treat; this cake fits any celebration.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can enjoy success.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant yellow color and creamy frosting make it visually appealing for any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making the cake, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pans: These provide the ideal shape for even baking and stacking of the cake layers.
• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to achieve fluffy batter and smooth frosting without much effort.
• Cooling rack: Ensures proper cooling of the cakes, preventing sogginess.

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. Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter or cooking spray, then dusting them with flour.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until well combined:
All-purpose flour
Cake flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil
Butter-flavored shortening
Add in:
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon zest
Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually alternate adding the dry mixture and buttermilk into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Add Vinegar and Hot Water

Mix together the white vinegar and hot lemon water in a separate bowl. Stir this mixture into your batter along with food coloring if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Cakes

Allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until fluffy. Gradually mix in:
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon zest
Then add powdered sugar until smooth. Adjust consistency with lemon juice if necessary.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Once cakes are completely cooled, frost each layer generously with lemon cream cheese frosting. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired.

Enjoy your delightful Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This delightful lemon velvet cake is perfect for any occasion. Its bright and zesty flavor pairs beautifully with various serving suggestions, making it a versatile dessert that everyone will love.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries – Serve sliced strawberries on the side for a burst of sweetness.
• Raspberries – Their tartness complements the cake’s lemony notes perfectly.
• Blueberries – These add a pop of color and a juicy contrast to the cake.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture.
• Flavored Whipped Cream – Consider adding vanilla or lemon zest to your whipped cream for extra flavor.

As Layered Dessert Parfaits

• Cake Trifle – Layer pieces of lemon velvet cake with lemon cream cheese frosting and fresh berries in a glass for an elegant presentation.
• Mason Jar Parfaits – Stack cake, frosting, and fruit in mason jars for easy serving at parties.

With Lemon Curd

• Lemon Curd Drizzle – Drizzle some tangy lemon curd over each slice for an added citrus punch.
• Lemon Curd Filling – Use lemon curd as an additional filling between the layers of cake for extra richness.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Achieving the perfect lemon velvet cake requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Bring your eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix the batter just until combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture in your cake layers.
• Check Doneness Early – Start checking your cakes at 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick; they should come out clean when done.
• Cool Cakes Completely – Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting them to prevent melting the frosting.
• Customize Your Frosting – Feel free to adjust the sweetness of your cream cheese frosting by adding more or less powdered sugar based on your taste preferences.

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

Pairing side dishes with your lemon velvet cake can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this citrus treat.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness and balance to each bite of the rich cake.
2. Lemon Sorbet – This refreshing frozen dessert echoes the flavors of the cake while providing a cold contrast.
3. Minted Pea Salad – The crispness of peas and mint adds a savory note that contrasts beautifully with sweet flavors.
4. Coconut Macaroons – Chewy and sweet, these treats pair well with creamy frostings and add texture variety.
5. Savory Cheese Platter – Include sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or tangy goat cheese to balance the sweetness of the cake.
6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These decadent bites offer a rich complement to the zesty flavors of your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and butter. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light texture you want.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements. Too much flour can make your cake dry.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to the exact temperature. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and cake texture.
• Neglecting to cool properly: Let your cakes cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cake covered to maintain moisture.

Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap the cake in aluminum foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for about 10-15 seconds at a time.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the layers ahead of time. Just store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them.

What if I don’t have lemon extract?

You can substitute with extra lemon zest or use additional vanilla extract, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

How do I achieve a bright yellow color?

Adding yellow food coloring is optional; however, use it sparingly until you reach your desired shade.

Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! The vibrant flavor and beautiful frosting make it perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any celebratory event.

Can I use alternative flours?

Yes! You can try gluten-free flour blends, but ensure they are designed as one-to-one substitutes.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can customize it by adding fresh berries or switching up the frosting flavors. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or just a sweet treat at home, this recipe promises joy and satisfaction in every bite!

Print

Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Tia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a dazzling dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any gathering. This cake features moist, fluffy layers infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, complemented by a rich cream cheese frosting. Its vibrant color and zesty taste make it an ideal choice for birthdays, spring celebrations, or simply as a delightful treat for yourself. Easy to prepare, this cake is sure to impress your guests and elevate any occasion with its irresistible charm.

---

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
• 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)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat together granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and butter-flavored shortening until fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon zest; mix well.
4. Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture and add buttermilk until just incorporated.
5. Mix white vinegar with hot lemon water; add to the batter along with food coloring if desired.
6. Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for about 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy; gradually add vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon zest, and powdered sugar until smooth.
9. Frost cooled cakes generously with lemon cream cheese frosting.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg