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Moist From-Scratch Lemon Layer Cake with Tangy Glaze

Close-up of a moist, yellow slice of lemon cake recipe topped with white glaze and lemon zest.
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Bake this simple, moist lemon layer cake from scratch. It features a tender crumb and a bright, tangy lemon glaze, making it a refreshing dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

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  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Glaze: 2 cups powdered sugar
  • For the Glaze: 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  7. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Add more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more lemon juice for a thinner glaze.
  10. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of glaze on top. Place the second layer on top. Drizzle the remaining glaze over the top and sides of the cake.

Notes

  • For an extra zesty flavor, you can brush the warm cake layers with a simple syrup made from 1/4 cup sugar dissolved in 1/4 cup lemon juice before glazing.
  • To achieve a very moist crumb, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
  • This recipe makes a perfect bright flavor cake suitable for spring dessert ideas.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/lemon-cake-recipe-moist-from-scratch/