Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that captures the essence of spring. Its light texture and zesty flavor make it perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any celebration. The combination of tender cake layers and creamy frosting creates a dessert that is both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re a lemon lover or just looking to impress your guests, this cake stands out with its bright flavor and beautiful presentation.

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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 Frosting
• How to Make Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
• Step 5: Add Vinegar Mixture
• Step 6: Bake the Cakes
• Step 7: Cool Cakes
• Step 8: Prepare Frosting
• Step 9: Assemble Cake
• How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
• With Fresh Berries
• Garnished with Mint
• Accompanied by Ice Cream
• Served with Whipped Cream
• Decorated with Candied Lemons
• How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
• Best Side Dishes for Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
• Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I make my cake more lemony?
• Can I use other types of frosting?
• How do I know when my cake is done?
• Can I make this cake ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The fresh lemon extracts and zest provide a zesty punch that elevates every bite.
• Moist Texture: The combination of buttermilk and oil ensures a cake that stays moist for days.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to formal celebrations.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, this cake is easy to whip up whenever a craving strikes.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The vibrant yellow color and smooth frosting make it visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the must-have items for creating your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to achieve a light and fluffy batter without much effort.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for organizing ingredients separately before combining them.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of bowls, ensuring no batter goes to waste.

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 thoroughly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
Cake flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together:
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil
Butter-flavored shortening
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon zest

Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 5: Add Vinegar Mixture

Mix together white vinegar and hot lemon water. Stir this into the batter along with any food coloring if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

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

Step 7: Cool Cakes

Let cakes cool in pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

For the frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in vanilla extract, lemon extract, zest, and powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 9: Assemble Cake

Frost cooled cake layers generously with lemon cream cheese frosting. Optional: Garnish with fresh lemon slices before serving.

How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can enhance its delightful flavors. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dessert that will impress your guests.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Juicy strawberries complement the lemon flavor beautifully.
• Blueberries: Their sweetness balances the tangy frosting perfectly.
• Raspberries: These add a tart touch that enhances the cake’s brightness.

Garnished with Mint

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint add color and a refreshing aroma.
• Mint-infused Syrup: Drizzle this over the cake for an extra minty kick.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the citrus notes.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a zesty contrast, lemon sorbet pairs wonderfully.

Served with Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: Adds a fluffy texture that complements the cake.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider lemon or vanilla for added depth.

Decorated with Candied Lemons

• Thinly Sliced Lemons: Candied lemon slices provide a sweet and tangy garnish.

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How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best results when making your Lemon Velvet Cake, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and frosting.
• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and sugar helps incorporate air, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until ingredients are just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready to cool!
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Ensure your cakes are fully cooled to prevent melting the frosting.
• Adjust Sweetness in Frosting: If too sweet, add a little lemon juice to balance flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Velvet Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here’s a list of delightful options to consider.

1. Lemonade: A refreshing drink that complements the citrus flavor of the cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your table.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses balances out sweetness well.
4. Pistachio Muffins: Nutty muffins offer a wonderful contrast in texture and taste.
5. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats enhance the tropical vibe of lemon desserts.
6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The richness of chocolate pairs beautifully with lemon’s tartness.
7. Tea Selection: Offer herbal or green teas for a soothing beverage option alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can be delightful, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven properly and use an oven thermometer if needed.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the cake’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can hinder the batter’s ability to mix well. Allow ingredients like eggs and cream cheese to reach room temperature before use.

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of fluffy. Mix until just combined for the best results.

• Neglecting to Cool Cakes Properly: Removing cakes from their pans too soon can cause breakage. Allow them to cool in their pans for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Lemon Velvet Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freezing is best done within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting.

How can I make my cake more lemony?

You can increase the amount of lemon zest or lemon extract in both the cake batter and frosting for a bolder flavor.

Can I use other types of frosting?

Absolutely! While lemon cream cheese frosting is delightful, you could try vanilla buttercream or even a simple whipped cream topping if desired.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when fully baked.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the layers ahead of time and store them wrapped in plastic wrap until you’re ready to frost and serve.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only refreshing but also versatile. Perfect for spring gatherings or any occasion, feel free to customize it by adding fresh berries or adjusting the lemon flavor. Give this delightful recipe a try, and experience its cheerful taste!