This Quick Lemon Cake With Glaze recipe is a game-changer for those craving a burst of citrusy goodness without the fuss. It’s incredibly easy to make, delivering a moist, tangy cake perfectly complemented by a sweet and vibrant lemon glaze. Perfect for a last-minute dessert, a casual afternoon treat, or even a special occasion, this quick lemon cake will become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
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The Easiest Quick Lemon Cake Recipe You’ll Ever Try
This recipe is designed for simplicity and speed, making it ideal for busy bakers or those new to the world of cakes. You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. No stand mixer required, just a simple whisk and bowl will do. This quick lemon cake is truly a testament to the fact that deliciousness doesn’t require complexity. I remember one time I needed a dessert for a potluck and only had an hour to spare. This quick lemon cake saved the day and was a huge hit!
Ingredients for quick lemon cake
Ingredients for the Quick Lemon Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Ingredients for the Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions for the Quick Lemon Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Baking the quick lemon cake
Making the Lemon Glaze
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. If the glaze is too thick, add more lemon juice, a teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Glazing the quick lemon cake
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Quick Lemon Cake
- For an even more intense lemon flavor, use Meyer lemons. Their sweeter, less acidic flavor adds a beautiful complexity. If you find Meyer lemons, definitely give them a try.
- Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a beautiful, even coating.
- If you like, you can add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or some fresh berries to the top of the glazed cake for an extra touch of elegance.
Similar to [Easy pound cake with glaze], this cake offers a simple yet satisfying dessert option.
Why This Quick Lemon Cake is a Must-Try
This quick lemon cake offers the perfect balance of sweet and tart, and the moist texture is truly irresistible. It’s incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed for any occasion. “A simple lemon cake like this is a blank canvas,” says renowned pastry chef, Emily Carter, “It’s the perfect base for exploring different flavors and toppings, from fresh fruit to whipped cream.”
Finished quick lemon cake
Conclusion
This quick lemon cake with glaze is a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. With its simple preparation, vibrant flavor, and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Give this quick lemon cake a try and experience the joy of baking made easy. For more delicious keto cake options, check out our [Top 6 keto birthday cake ideas 2025].
FAQs
- Can I use bottled lemon juice? While fresh lemon juice is always preferred for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
- How long will this cake stay fresh? This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days, stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before glazing.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Glaze it just before serving.
- Can I use a different type of pan? Yes, you can use an 8×8 inch pan or a bundt pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Can I add other flavors to the glaze? Yes, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the glaze for a different flavor profile. This cake also pairs beautifully with our [best earl grey cake recipes]. You could also try a [Keto cake with avocado] for a healthier twist. Finally, you can explore more keto-friendly options in our collection of [Top 10 keto cake recipes with cream cheese 2025].
- What can I do if my glaze is too runny? Simply add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
