Name: Lemon Velvet Cake w/ Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 58 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all purpose flour; 1 cup cake flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1.75 cups granulated sugar; 0.75 cup vegetable oil; 0.25 cup butter-flavored shortening; 2 eggs; 1-2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon pure lemon extract; 1 heaping teaspoon lemon zest (from 1-2 lemons); 1 cup buttermilk; 0.5 teaspoon white distilled vinegar; 0.33 cup hot lemon water ((hot water mixed with 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice)); 4-6 drops yellow food coloring; 16 oz cream cheese (room temperature); 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature); 1.5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1.5 teaspoons pure lemon extract; 1.5 heaping teaspoons lemon zest (from 2 lemons); 4-5 cups powdered sugar (sifted); 1-2 teaspoons lemon juice ((if needed)); 4-5 drops yellow food coloring

Introduction to Lemon Velvet Cake

Are you ready to elevate your dessert game with a zesty twist? Lemon velvet cake is here to bring brightness and joy to any occasion. Imagine a soft, fluffy cake infused with the refreshing taste of lemon, topped with a luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds!

Why Lemon Velvet Cake is a Perfect Homemade Dessert

Lemon velvet cake is perfect for a variety of reasons. First, its unique texture sets it apart from traditional cakes. The combination of cake flour and buttermilk creates a light, airy crumb that practically melts in your mouth. Plus, the citrus notes make it an ideal dessert for both sunny days and cozy gatherings.

But it doesn't stop there! This cake is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Whether it’s a spring celebration or a summer barbecue, lemon adds a refreshing touch that pairs well with fresh herbs and even light cocktails. It’s a dessert that brings people together, making it a fantastic choice for birthdays, weddings, or just because you deserve a treat!

So, why wait? Let’s dive deeper into the world of this delightful lemon velvet cake and learn how to create it with a mouthwatering lemon cream cheese frosting!

Ingredients for Lemon Velvet Cake

Essential Ingredients for the Cake

To whip up a delightful lemon velvet cake, you'll need the following key ingredients:

Flours: Combine 1½ cups of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of cake flour for that soft, tender texture.
Leavening Agents: One teaspoon each of baking soda and baking powder will help your cake rise perfectly.
Sugar and Fats: Use 1¾ cups of granulated sugar along with ¾ cup of vegetable oil and ¼ cup of butter-flavored shortening for sweetness and moisture.
Eggs and Flavors: Two eggs and extracts of pure vanilla (1-2 teaspoons) and pure lemon (1 tablespoon) will add richness and zesty notes. Don’t forget the heaping teaspoon of lemon zest!
Buttermilk and Vinegar: Add 1 cup of buttermilk mixed with ½ teaspoon of white distilled vinegar for that tangy kick.
Hot Lemon Water: ⅓ cup will enhance the lemon flavor.

Ingredients for the Frosting

Now for the crowning glory, the frosting! Gather these components for a tangy, creamy finish:

Cream Cheese and Butter: Use two 8 oz packages of cream cheese and 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter, both at room temperature.
Flavor Enhancements: Similar to the cake, premium extracts of vanilla (1½ teaspoons) and lemon (1½ teaspoons) plus 1½ heaping teaspoons of lemon zest for that zing.
Sweetener: 4-5 cups of sifted powdered sugar will give that luscious sweetness.
Additional Lemon Juice: 1-2 teaspoons may be needed for the perfect consistency.
Coloring: A few drops of yellow food coloring can brighten up your frosting.

These ingredients will help you create a stunning lemon velvet cake topped with creamy lemon frosting that will impress anyone who takes a bite! If you're curious about how these ingredients interact for optimal flavor, check out this detailed article on baking science for deeper insights.

Preparing Lemon Velvet Cake

Making a lemon velvet cake is a delightful endeavor that will leave your kitchen filled with the refreshing aroma of citrus. Follow these steps to create a scrumptious cake that’s perfect for any occasion.

Preheat the oven and prepare the pans

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step is crucial as a properly heated oven ensures even baking. While it's warming up, generously grease and flour two 9-inch dark cake pans to prevent sticking. Don't skip this step—nobody likes a cake that clings to the pan!

Mix the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together:

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cake flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt

Sifting the ingredients helps to aerate them and ensures there are no lumps, leading to an exquisite lemon velvet cake texture.

Combine the wet ingredients

In another bowl, blend the following ingredients:

1¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup butter-flavored shortening

Mix these thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth. Then, add in 2 eggs, one at a time, followed by 1-2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of pure lemon extract, and 1 heaping teaspoon of lemon zest.

Create the cake batter

Now comes the fun part! Gradually combine your dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk. Mix just until combined. Don't overmix; you want your batter to remain light and airy.

To create an extra zing, combine ½ teaspoon of white distilled vinegar with ⅓ cup of hot lemon water (made by mixing hot water with two tablespoons of lemon juice) and fold this into your batter. Finally, add 4-6 drops of yellow food coloring to achieve that cheerful lemon hue.

Bake the lemon velvet cake

Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared pans and shake them gently to remove any air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick—when moist crumbs cling to it, your cake is ready! Remember, it will continue to cook a little while cooling in the pan.

Cool the cakes

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans until they're cool enough to handle. Then, gently remove them from the pans and place them on a cooling rack. Let them cool completely—patience is key here, as this allows the flavors to further develop.

Prepare the lemon cream cheese frosting

While your lemon velvet cake is cooling, whip up the frosting. In a large bowl, combine two 8 oz packages of room-temperature cream cheese with 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter until creamy. Add 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon zest, mixing well. Gradually incorporate 4-5 cups of sifted powdered sugar until the frosting is spreadable. If it's too thick, feel free to add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice for that perfect consistency.

Frost the cakes

Once your cakes are completely cool, it’s time to frost! Take your luscious lemon cream cheese frosting and spread it generously on top of one layer, then stack the second layer and frost the top and sides. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with additional lemon zest. Voilà! You’ve created a stunning lemon velvet cake that’s sure to impress.

By following these steps, you'll master the art of baking this delectable dessert. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get started on your lemon velvet cake journey!

Variations on Lemon Velvet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Velvet Cake

Simply add fresh blueberries to your lemon velvet cake batter for a delightful twist! The tartness of the berries wonderfully complements the zesty lemon flavor. Gently fold about a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter just before pouring it into the pans. This variation not only adds vibrant color but also a juicy burst of flavor in every bite!

Gluten-Free Lemon Velvet Cake

For a gluten-free take, substitute the all-purpose and cake flours with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. You might find that the cake has a slightly different texture, but with the right blend, it can be just as delicious and moist as the traditional version! For additional tips on gluten-free baking, check out America's Test Kitchen.

Baking Notes for Lemon Velvet Cake

Tips to Prevent Overbaking

To achieve the perfect lemon velvet cake, it's crucial not to overbake. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. When a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), it’s time to take it out. Remember, the cake will continue to cook while cooling in the pan, so trust that residual heat!

Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients

Using room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and butter, is key to achieving that fluffy texture in your lemon velvet cake. When these ingredients mix more easily, they create a stable and airy batter that rises beautifully. If you forget to bring them out ahead of time, a quick fix is to place eggs in warm water for about 10 minutes or soften butter in the microwave for just a few seconds.

For more tips on baking successes, check out this helpful guide from King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Velvet Cake

How to Plate and Garnish

When presenting your lemon velvet cake, keep it simple yet elegant. Start by placing a generous slice on a clean, white plate to let the vibrant yellow color shine. For the ultimate touch, dust the top with powdered sugar and add a swirl of lemon cream cheese frosting with a piping bag. You can finish off with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest and perhaps a few edible flowers for a pop of color. This not only enhances the cake's appeal but elevates your dessert experience.

Beverage Pairings with Lemon Velvet Cake

Pairing beverages with your lemon velvet cake can elevate your dessert experience. Consider serving it alongside:

Chilled Herbal Tea: A refreshing mint or chamomile tea can complement the tangy citrus flavor beautifully.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: This simple option enhances the cake's lemony notes while keeping the palate refreshed.
Lemonade: An artisanal or homemade lemonade can create a delightful synergy that celebrates the cake's flavors.

With these suggestions, your lemon velvet cake will be the star of the dessert table! For more tips on pairing treats with drinks, check out this engaging guide on food and beverage matchmaking.

Time Details for Lemon Velvet Cake

When planning to bake this delightful Lemon Velvet Cake, it's essential to keep track of your time to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you organize your day:

Preparation Time

Allow 30 minutes to gather and prep your ingredients, mix the batter, and prepare the pans for baking.

Baking Time

The actual baking will take about 28 minutes. Items may fluctuate based on oven efficiency, so keep an eye on your cake towards the end.

Total Time

You can expect the total time to be approximately 58 minutes from start to finish, including cooling before frosting. Enjoy the process!

For more detailed baking techniques, check out reliable baking resources like King Arthur Baking or Bon Appétit. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Lemon Velvet Cake

Approximate Calories per Slice

Indulging in this Lemon Velvet Cake means you're treating yourself to about 350 calories per slice. While this dessert is a delightful indulgence, enjoying it in moderation can fit perfectly into your dessert routine!

Key Nutritional Highlights

This cake isn’t just about great taste. Here are some nutritional highlights:

Vitamin C: From fresh lemon zest, boosting your immune system.
Calcium: Thanks to the buttermilk and cream cheese, supporting strong bones.
Healthy Fats: The use of vegetable oil and butter-flavored shortening offers a satisfying richness.

For more on healthy baking practices, check out resources from the American Heart Association. Enjoy your slice of bliss knowing it has its perks!

FAQs about Lemon Velvet Cake

How can I add more lemon flavor?

If you’re craving an extra zesty punch in your lemon velvet cake, try adding more lemon zest or a splash of fresh lemon juice to the batter. You can also swap the vanilla extract for a bit more lemon extract to enhance that citrusy goodness. Strike a balance so it remains delightful and does not overpower the other flavors.

Can I freeze lemon velvet cake?

Absolutely! Lemon velvet cake freezes beautifully. To preserve its moistness, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before storing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. Just be sure to frost it after thawing for a fresh touch!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

To keep your lemon velvet cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’ve already frosted it, it’s best to refrigerate it to maintain the creamy texture of the frosting. Simply bring it to room temperature before serving for the full flavorful experience!

For more tips on baking and storing cakes effectively, check out Joy of Baking or King Arthur Baking.

Conclusion on Lemon Velvet Cake

Why you should try this recipe today!

If you're on the hunt for a dessert that bursts with citrus goodness, look no further than this lemon velvet cake! Its soft, fluffy texture combined with the tangy lemon cream cheese frosting makes it a showstopper for any occasion. Treat yourself today and savor every bite of this delightful cake creation. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!