Lemon Glaze Cake Recipe

Lemon Glaze Cake is a bright, citrusy dessert with a soft, moist texture and a sweet-tart lemon glaze that soaks into every bite. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or whenever you’re craving a refreshing and zesty treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and citrusy – Bursting with fresh lemon flavor.
• Moist and tender – The glaze keeps the cake soft and delicious.
• Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples.
• Perfect for any occasion – Great for brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
• Easy to customize – Try different citrus flavors or add mix-ins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest
• Fresh lemon juice
• Milk

For the Lemon Glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or bundt pan.
• In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
• Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined.

2. Bake the Cake:

• Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

3. Make the Lemon Glaze:

• In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
• Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, letting it soak in slightly.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

• Let the glaze set for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8–10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Extra Moist Cake: Add a little sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter.
• Lemon Poppy Seed: Stir in 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds for texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Orange Glaze Cake: Swap lemon juice and zest for orange for a citrusy twist.
• Lemon Coconut: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10 seconds if desired.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

What type of pan should I use?

A loaf pan, bundt pan, or 9-inch round cake pan all work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

How do I keep my cake from being dry?

Avoid overbaking and measure ingredients accurately.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.

What’s the best way to glaze the cake?

Drizzle while the cake is warm so it absorbs some of the glaze.

Can I use a different citrus fruit?

Yes! Try lime, orange, or grapefruit for a unique twist.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

Add more powdered sugar to thicken or more lemon juice to thin it.

Can I add fruit to the batter?

Yes! Blueberries or raspberries pair well with lemon.

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, it has a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Conclusion

Lemon Glaze Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that’s packed with bright citrus flavor. With its soft texture, sweet glaze, and refreshing taste, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a slice of sunshine in every bite!

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