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 moist and fluffy layers, paired with a tangy and creamy frosting, make it perfect for birthdays, tea parties, or any celebration. The bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist that will impress your guests and brighten up any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The zesty lemon infuses every bite with a refreshing citrus taste.
• Moist Texture: With both buttermilk and oil, this cake stays wonderfully moist and tender.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for celebrations, picnics, or simply enjoying at home with friends.
• Easy to Make: Simple step-by-step instructions ensure success even for beginner bakers.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant lemon frosting makes this cake visually stunning on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To create this scrumptious lemon velvet cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans (9-inch)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Using an electric mixer simplifies beating ingredients until fluffy, saving time and effort.
• Mixing bowls: Different sizes allow for easy organization of ingredients during preparation.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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)

How to Make Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare two 9-inch cake pans by greasing and flouring them well. This ensures easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
* All-purpose flour
* Cake flour
* Baking soda
* Baking powder
* Salt
Make sure they are evenly mixed to ensure proper rising.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together these wet ingredients until light and fluffy:
* Granulated sugar
* Vegetable oil
* Butter-flavored shortening
* Eggs
* Vanilla extract
* Lemon extract
* Lemon zest

Step 4: Combine Dry & Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined to keep the batter light.

Step 5: Prepare Batter

Combine white vinegar with hot lemon water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into your batter along with food coloring if desired. Mix gently until smooth.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until the centers are set. Check using a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool Cakes

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make Frosting

For your frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until fluffy. Gradually mix in vanilla extract, lemon extract, zest, and powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 9: Frosting & Garnishing

Once cooled, frost each layer generously with your creamy lemon frosting. If desired, garnish with fresh lemon slices or additional zest for an extra pop of color!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any occasion. This delightful cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments, making it a versatile dessert option.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and place them on top of the cake for a pop of color.
• Blueberries: Scatter blueberries around the plate for a refreshing burst of flavor.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on each slice for extra creaminess.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider infusing whipped cream with vanilla or lemon zest for added depth.

With Lemon Curd

• Classic Lemon Curd: Serve a small side of lemon curd for guests to drizzle over their slice, enhancing the lemony flavor.
• Layered Option: Spread lemon curd between cake layers for an added zing.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Vanilla pairs flawlessly with lemon, creating a perfect contrast in flavors.
• Sorbet: A lemon sorbet can amplify the citrus notes in the cake while keeping it light.

With Nuts

• Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle toasted almonds on top for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cake.
• Candied Pecans: Add sweetness and crunch by garnishing with candied pecans.

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How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Lemon Velvet Cake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cake turns out deliciously every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour and other dry ingredients helps eliminate lumps and results in a lighter cake.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cake tender and prevent it from becoming dense.
• Check doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cakes to cool completely to prevent melting your frosting or causing it to slide off.
• Adjust frosting thickness: If your frosting is too thick, add lemon juice; if too thin, gradually mix in powdered sugar until desired consistency.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Velvet Cake can enhance its flavor profile. Here are some delightful options that complement this zesty dessert.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Citrus Salad: Combine oranges, grapefruit, and mint for a refreshing side that echoes citrus notes.
3. Lemon-Infused Rice: Serve fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest to maintain the theme of bright flavors.
4. Herbed Quinoa: Quinoa tossed with herbs provides a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet cake.
5. Garlic Butter Asparagus: The savory taste of asparagus pairs well with the sweetness of lemon velvet cake.
6. Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a crisp counterbalance to the rich frosting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure your cake turns out perfect.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can result in a dense cake. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too long can lead to a tough texture. Combine ingredients until just mixed to maintain that light velvet consistency.
• Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Too much flour can dry out your cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements to ensure a moist result.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different, which means baking times may vary. Check your cakes a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
• Frosting While Warm: Applying frosting to warm cake layers can melt your cream cheese frosting. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Velvet Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap.
• Use aluminum foil over the wrap for added protection.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm a slice on medium power for 15-20 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of reduced-fat?

Yes, using regular cream cheese will give you a richer flavor and creamier texture in your frosting.

How do I make my lemon cake more lemony?

Add extra lemon zest or juice into both the batter and frosting for more intense lemon flavor.

Can I substitute other extracts?

Absolutely! You can experiment with almond extract or even orange extract for unique flavor variations in your Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting.

What type of food coloring should I use?

Gel food coloring is recommended, as it provides vibrant color without affecting the batter’s consistency too much.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake and frost the cake one day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge overnight.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of spring with its bright flavors and soft texture. It’s versatile enough for celebrations or simple family gatherings. Feel free to customize with berries or even coconut flakes to suit your taste!