Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that brightens up any occasion. Its fluffy cake layers paired with a zesty lemon cream cheese frosting make it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or a simple afternoon tea. This recipe brings out the freshness of lemons, creating a light and refreshing dessert that’s hard to resist. With its vibrant color and delicious flavor, you’ll want to make this cake for every celebration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and extracts creates a fresh, vibrant taste that awakens your senses.
• Moist Texture: Using both all-purpose and cake flour ensures a tender and moist cake that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this stunning cake quickly.
• Versatile Occasion: Ideal for various events, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations, this cake fits right in.
• Showstopper Presentation: The sunny yellow frosting and optional garnish make this cake visually appealing on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious lemon velvet cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A good set of mixing bowls allows for easy preparation of ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures the batter is mixed thoroughly for a perfect texture.
• Cooling rack: Using a cooling rack helps cakes cool evenly, 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.

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. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will ensure that your cakes come out easily once baked.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
* All-purpose flour
* Cake flour
* Baking soda
* Baking powder
* Salt

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together:
* Granulated sugar
* Vegetable oil
* Butter-flavored shortening
* Eggs
* Vanilla extract
* Lemon extract
* Lemon zest 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. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add Vinegar and Hot Lemon Water

Mix the white vinegar with hot lemon water in another bowl. Stir this mixture into the batter along with yellow food coloring if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

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

Step 7: Cool Cakes

Once baked, let cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

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

Step 9: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled, frost each layer of your cake with the luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. Garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired for an extra touch.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delightful 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. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or just a sunny afternoon, consider these delightful serving suggestions.

Simple Presentation

• Use a cake stand to display the cake beautifully.
• Dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Garnish with Fresh Fruits

• Add lemon slices or fresh berries on top for a pop of color.
• Serve alongside whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or lemon sorbet complements the citrus flavor perfectly.
• Serve warm cake slices with a scoop of ice cream for contrast.

Coffee or Tea Service

• Offer a cup of coffee or herbal tea to enhance the flavor experience.
• Citrus-infused teas can pair especially well with lemon desserts.

Create Dessert Plates

• Slice the cake into small pieces and serve on dessert plates.
• Add a sprig of mint for freshness and appeal.

Layered Desserts

• Incorporate pieces of the cake in a trifle with layers of lemon pudding and whipped cream.
• This creates an attractive and delicious layered dessert option.

How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the most delightful Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, follow these tips carefully.

• Use room temperature ingredients – This helps create a smooth batter and contributes to better texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Stir until just combined to keep your cake tender and fluffy.
• Measure flour correctly – Spoon flour into measuring cups rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cake.
• Cool cakes completely – Ensure layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.
• Adjust sweetness as needed – Taste test your frosting and add more powdered sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
• Experiment with flavors – Feel free to add more zest or extracts for an extra zing in both the cake and frosting.

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

Enhancing your meal with side dishes can create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some tasty options that pair perfectly with your Lemon Velvet Cake.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds refreshing flavors that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
2. Coconut Macaroons – These chewy treats have a subtle sweetness that complements lemon’s tanginess.
3. Lemon Sorbet – A light and fruity option that serves as a palate cleanser between bites of rich cake.
4. Cheese Platter – A variety of cheeses can balance out the dessert’s sweetness; include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – The richness of chocolate pairs beautifully with lemon’s bright flavors, creating an indulgent treat.
6. Mini Quiches – Savory quiches can be served alongside, providing a nice contrast to sweet desserts while being easy to handle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much flour can make your cake dense. Be sure to measure accurately.
• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can lead to an uneven batter. Let your eggs and cream cheese sit out before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too long can create a tough cake. Stop once everything is just combined for the best texture.
• Not Testing for Doneness: Relying solely on baking time can lead to undercooked or overbaked cakes. Use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean.
• Frosting While Warm: Frosting a warm cake can melt your cream cheese frosting. Ensure your layers are completely cooled before frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
• This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting will last up to 5 days.

Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake With Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover the cake with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power in short bursts (10-15 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Lemon Velvet Cake different from regular sponge cake?

Lemon Velvet Cake is softer and moister than regular sponge cakes due to its unique combination of flours and buttermilk.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon extract?

Yes, you can substitute lemon juice for lemon extract, but the flavor may be less intense. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my cream cheese frosting is smooth?

Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a creamy texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour and cake flour with gluten-free blends suitable for baking.

How should I decorate my Lemon Velvet Cake?

You can garnish it with fresh berries, mint leaves, or additional lemon zest for added flair!

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or enjoying a sunny afternoon, this recipe shines bright! Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings for an extra special touch.