Moist Lemon Cake: A Refreshing Dessert Treat

Name: Moist Lemon Cake: A Refreshing Dessert Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 tbsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Brighten your dessert table with this Moist Lemon Cake recipe, bursting with zesty citrus flavor and irresistibly soft texture. Perfectly sweet and tangy, this cake is a delightful way to celebrate any occasion or simply enjoy a slice during afternoon tea. Topped with a luscious lemon glaze, it’s a dreamy treat that balances tartness and sweetness in every bite, making it a favorite among dessert lovers.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2025-11-29T11:38:35.890Z

This Moist Lemon Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! With its bright, sunny flavor, it brings a touch of freshness to any meal. Imagine gathering around the table with family and friends, enjoying slices of this cake paired with steaming cups of tea or coffee. The cake’s texture is so tender and moist that every bite melts in your mouth...

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Moist Lemon Cake is the ultimate dessert that fits perfectly into any celebration. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a wedding, or simply enjoying a cozy gathering with friends, this cake adds a bright and cheerful touch. Its vibrant lemon flavor can lift spirits and make any event feel special. The soft, fluffy texture combined with the zesty sweetness ensures it will be a crowd-pleaser among both adults and children alike.

What makes this cake even more desirable is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks, from tea and coffee to sparkling beverages, enhancing the overall dining experience. Plus, it can easily be adapted to suit dietary needs, whether you want a gluten-free version or a reduced-sugar option. Regardless of how you customize it, the essence of this lemon cake remains irresistible.

A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

One of the standout features of this Moist Lemon Cake is the delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest gives the cake a refreshing kick, awakening your taste buds. Each bite offers a perfect combination of happiness and satisfaction, making it an unforgettable treat. The lemon glaze on top enhances the sweetness while providing that smooth, glossy finish that makes the cake visually appealing.

Furthermore, this cake is not just delicious; it is also incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re new to baking, you can create this delightful dessert without any hassle. The straightforward ingredients and steps mean you can spend less time worrying about the process and more time enjoying the delicious results.

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Moist Lemon Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can freeze the cake before glazing. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature and prepare the glaze for a delicious treat any day!

When serving, consider pairing slices with fresh berries or whipped cream to elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top can also enhance the cake's appeal, making it look even more inviting for guests. With its vibrant color and delightful taste, this Moist Lemon Cake is bound to impress.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious lemon cake:

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice
1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

With these ingredients, you’re ready to start making your delicious moist lemon cake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cake to perfection:

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the buttermilk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is cooling, mix together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed with more milk or powdered sugar.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.

Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing into your delicious cake!

Get Creative with Variations

While the traditional Moist Lemon Cake is a classic, don’t hesitate to get creative with variations. You can incorporate poppy seeds for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon. Alternatively, try adding a layer of lemon curd between cake layers for an extra burst of citrus intensity that will elevate your dessert experience.

Another fun twist is to transform the flavor profile using different citrus fruits. Lime or orange can provide a unique taste while retaining that zestiness you love. This flexibility allows you to customize the cake according to your preferences and seasonal ingredients, making it a recipe you’ll revisit time and again.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Moist Lemon Cake turns out perfectly, start with room temperature ingredients. This helps the butter and sugar cream together more effectively, contributing to a light and fluffy texture. Also, when measuring flour, avoid using the scooping method, as it can lead to too much flour in the batter. Instead, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.

Make sure not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients; mixing just until combined will keep the cake tender. Lastly, use a toothpick test to check for doneness. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. With these tips in mind, you're sure to create a delightful dessert that everyone will savor.

Questions About Recipes

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the lemon cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing for up to 3 months.