Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting: A Dreamy, Zesty Delight

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Bright, moist, and bursting with citrus flavor, this Lemon Velvet Cake is the ultimate treat for lemon lovers!
Paired with a rich and tangy lemon cream cheese frosting, it’s a showstopping dessert that’s light, fresh, and simply irresistible — perfect for birthdays, showers, or any occasion that calls for a little sunshine on a plate.

📝 Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 2 1/2 cups cake flour

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar

  • 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), at room temperature

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt

  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature

  • 1/2 cup butter, at room temperature

  • 4 cups powdered sugar

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

  • Grease and flour two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  • Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar:

  • In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:

  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

  • Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Prepare the Yogurt Mixture:

  • In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

6. Combine the Mixtures:

  • Alternately add the dry flour mixture and the yogurt mixture to the creamed butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

  • Mix gently until just combined — do not overmix.

7. Bake the Cakes:

  • Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.

  • Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

8. Cool the Cakes:

  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.

  • Then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

9. Prepare the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

  • Add the powdered sugar gradually, followed by the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.

  • Beat until the frosting is fluffy and light.

10. Assemble the Cake:

  • Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate.

  • Spread a generous layer of lemon cream cheese frosting over the top.

  • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.

  • Decorate with thin lemon slices, extra lemon zest, or edible flowers for a beautiful finishing touch.

📅 Prep and Cook Time:

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes

  • Total Time: 50 minutes

🔥 Calories:

  • Approximately 350 kcal per serving (based on 12 servings)

💡 Tips for Success:

  • Boost the Flavor: Add a bit more lemon zest to both the cake batter and the frosting if you love an extra lemony punch.

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest cake and frosting textures.

  • Decoration Ideas: Garnish with lemon curls, candied lemon slices, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.

  • Storage: Keep the frosted cake refrigerated, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

🍴 Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve chilled for a refreshing treat on warm days, or at room temperature for an ultra-soft crumb.

  • Pair with a hot cup of tea or a glass of sparkling wine for a perfect combination.

  • Ideal for birthdays, bridal showers, summer garden parties, or just because you love lemon!

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Lemon Velvet Cake:

  • Moist and Tender: Thanks to the Greek yogurt and perfect balance of ingredients.

  • Bright and Zesty: Fresh lemon juice and zest in both the cake and frosting deliver vibrant flavor.

  • Elegant Yet Easy: Simple steps and accessible ingredients turn into an impressive dessert.

  • Crowd-Pleaser: A beautiful, cheerful cake that tastes as good as it looks!

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