Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

This Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping is a delightful dessert that combines the zestiness of lemon with the sweetness of fresh raspberries. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a treat for yourself, this cake stands out with its crumbly topping and moist texture. Your friends and family will surely ask for this recipe again!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake
• For the Crumb Topping
• How to Make Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
• Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Mix in Lemon Flavor
• Step 6: Prepare Springform Pan
• Step 7: Make Crumb Topping
• Step 8: Bake the Cake
• How to Serve Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
• Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream
• Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream
• Complement with Fresh Berries
• Drizzle with Lemon Glaze
• Enjoy with a Cup of Tea or Coffee
• How to Perfect Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
• Best Side Dishes for Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
• Reheating Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen raspberries instead?
• What if I don’t have sour cream?
• How do I know when my cake is done?
• Can I add other fruits?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of lemon and raspberry creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a dessert or pair it with coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors of raspberries against the golden cake make it visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by properly creaming the butter and sugar.
• Springform pan: Ideal for cakes like this one, allowing for easy removal without damaging the delicate crumb topping.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping:

For the Cake

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups cake flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (from 2 large lemons)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 cups fresh raspberries

For the Crumb Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

How to Make Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350˚F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the following ingredients to the creamed mixture:
1. 2 large eggs
2. 1 cup sour cream
3. 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix until combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl:
1. Combine 2 cups cake flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, and ¼ tsp salt.
2. Add this flour mixture to the batter, whisking until just combined.

Step 5: Mix in Lemon Flavor

Add:
1. 1/4 cup lemon juice
2. 1 tbsp lemon zest

Gently fold these into your batter.

Step 6: Prepare Springform Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared springform pan and spread it evenly. Top with:
– 2 cups fresh raspberries, distributed in a single layer so they are not overcrowded.

Step 7: Make Crumb Topping

To create your streusel topping:
1. In a bowl, combine:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Mix for 2-3 minutes until all flour is incorporated and resembles crumbly dough. Distribute evenly over the raspberries.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before removing the springform ring. Allow cooling completely before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping!

How to Serve Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

This delightful Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping is perfect for any occasion. Its bright flavors and crumbly texture make it a standout dessert that pairs well with various accompaniments.

Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream enhances the cake’s tartness while adding a creamy texture that complements the raspberries.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side offers a rich contrast to the cake’s zesty flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Complement with Fresh Berries

• Adding a mix of fresh berries as a garnish not only adds color but also boosts the fruity taste of the cake, making it visually appealing.

Drizzle with Lemon Glaze

• A simple lemon glaze drizzled over the top can intensify the citrus flavor, making it even more refreshing.

Enjoy with a Cup of Tea or Coffee

• Serve slices alongside your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a relaxing experience.

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How to Perfect Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

To ensure your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing butter, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Fresh raspberries are best: Use fresh raspberries instead of frozen for optimal flavor and texture. Frozen berries can add excess moisture.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked. Adjust baking time as needed based on your oven.
• Cool before slicing: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart and ensure clean cuts.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

Pairing your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Minty Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits dressed in mint adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Citrus Arugula Salad: A salad featuring peppery arugula, citrus segments, and a light vinaigrette provides a zesty contrast.
3. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries creates a creamy side that matches well with lemon flavors.
4. Scones with Clotted Cream: These buttery scones offer a rich pairing alongside your lemon raspberry delight, perfect for afternoon tea.
5. Lemon Sorbet: A chilled lemon sorbet serves as a palate cleanser that complements the cake’s citrus notes nicely.
6. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which can provide savory balance against the sweet cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping can be delightful, but small mistakes can lead to big disappointments. Here are some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them.

• Using cold ingredients: Always start with room temperature butter and eggs. Cold ingredients can prevent proper mixing and affect the cake’s texture.
• Overmixing the batter: After adding the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper ensures easy removal of the cake and prevents sticking. Don’t skip this step!
• Ignoring oven temperatures: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure yours is accurate for perfect baking results.
• Crowding the raspberries: Distributing raspberries evenly is key. If they are too crowded, they may sink or cause the cake to become soggy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making the Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I use frozen raspberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or buttermilk for similar results in texture and flavor.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached when it’s ready.

Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. Try blueberries or strawberries along with or instead of raspberries for a twist.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by using different fruits or adjusting sweetness according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy baking something delightful that will impress your friends and family!