1. Preheat and Prepare:
a. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Make the Lemon Cake:
a. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
b. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
c. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
d. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
e. Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice, ensuring the batter is well mixed and aromatic.
f. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and smooth the top.
3. Bake the Cake:
a. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes for round pans or 35-40 minutes for a rectangular pan, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
b. Allow the cake to cool in the pan(s) for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Lemon Glaze:
a. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Glaze the Cake:
a. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top.
6. Slice and Serve:
a. Slice into this moist and flavorful Lemon Cake and serve, savoring the perfect balance of citrusy sweetness in every bite.
Conclusion:
Lemon Cake is a celebration of the bright, tangy, and refreshing flavors that lemons bring to the table. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, as a dessert centerpiece, or shared with loved ones, this cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. The moist crumb and zesty glaze create a harmonious symphony of sweetness that will leave you craving another slice. Indulge in the freshness of lemons with this delightful Lemon Cake recipe. Happy baking!