Description

This classic Lemon Layer Cake features tender, moist lemon-infused layers paired with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting and zesty lemon curd filling. The cake combines the bright freshness of lemon zest and juice with the smooth texture of buttermilk and cream cheese to create an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

Cooking spray
2 cups (240 g) plus 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 cup plus 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
4 large egg whites

Frosting & Filling

1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
5 cups (565 g) confectioners’ sugar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 (11-oz.) jar store-bought or homemade lemon curd
Lemon zest, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cake pans with cooking spray. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon zest and vanilla extract, mixing well. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. In another bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into batter.
Bake the Cake Layers: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Make Frosting: Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating until creamy. Mix in fresh lemon juice for tanginess. Adjust consistency with more sugar if needed.
Assemble Cake: Place one cake layer on serving plate. Spread a generous layer of lemon curd over it. Top with a layer of cream cheese frosting. Repeat with remaining layers, finishing with frosting on top and sides. Garnish with lemon zest for an added burst of color and flavor.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to set. Serve chilled or at room temperature, slicing to enjoy the bright lemon flavors and creamy texture.

Notes

You can make your own lemon curd at home for a fresher taste.
Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding egg whites to keep the cake light and airy.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best mixing results.
This cake keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: lemon layer cake, lemon cake, cream cheese frosting, lemon curd cake, layered cake, lemon dessert, homemade cake