Soft-Textured Lemon Cake

Description:
This Soft-Textured Lemon Cake is light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. Made with simple ingredients and a touch of sour cream for extra moisture, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a tea-time treat or a special dessert. The zesty lemon glaze adds the perfect finishing touch!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 large lemon)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Lemon Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Step 2: Mix the Wet & Dry Ingredients

1. Add the fresh lemon juice and sour cream to the butter mixture, stirring to combine.
2. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes (or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean).
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

Tips for Success:

• Extra Moist Cake: Adding a bit of olive oil (1-2 tbsp) to the batter can make the cake even softer.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• More Lemon Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon extract for an extra citrusy punch.

Serving Recommendations:

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a cup of hot tea or iced lemonade for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition (Per Serving, ~8 slices):

Approximate values

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 12g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 180mg

This Soft-Textured Lemon Cake is a bright, flavorful, and tender dessert that will melt in your mouth! ✨