Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re ready to take your dessert game to the next level, this Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is about to become your new best friend. Picture this: a moist, tender cake that’s bursting with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon, paired with a rich, tangy frosting that complements the cake perfectly. It’s the kind of dessert that will make your taste buds do a little happy dance. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating a moment of joy. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration, a family gathering, or just treating yourself to something sweet, this cake is bound to be a hit. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Versatile: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, this cake works for every occasion. Imagine the pleasure of slicing into a piece of this cake after a long day, or sharing it with friends and family—it’s the kind of dessert that brings people together.
• Budget-Friendly: No need for fancy ingredients here—this cake uses common pantry staples, but the end result is incredibly impressive. You don’t have to break the bank to make a showstopper of a dessert!
• Quick and Easy: Even if you’re not a baking pro, this recipe is designed to be easy to follow. With simple steps and a little patience, you’ll have a beautiful cake to show off in no time.
• Customizable: Want to switch things up? You can add extra zest, or even a handful of poppy seeds for a fun twist. The frosting is a blank canvas for your creativity—try adding a splash of vanilla or a little extra lemon juice for that perfect balance of tart and sweet.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This cake has the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors that make it a favorite among all ages. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

Ingredients

Here’s where the magic starts. Each ingredient plays an important role in making this cake as delicious as it is:

Butter: Rich and creamy, butter provides the soft, tender texture we all love in a pound cake. It’s the foundation of the flavor, giving the cake its melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Cream Cheese: The secret to that rich, velvety texture. The cream cheese adds a slight tang, making each bite perfectly balanced with the sweetness.

Sugar: Sweet, but not overwhelming—sugar helps create the delicate crumb and gives the cake the perfect amount of sweetness.

Eggs: The binding agents that hold everything together and contribute to the cake’s light, airy texture.

Flour: The backbone of any cake. Flour helps structure the cake, giving it that beautiful, smooth crumb.

Baking Powder: The lift we need to make this cake rise beautifully without being too dense.

Lemon Zest and Lemon Juice: The star players! Zesty lemon brings a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the cake and frosting, giving it that irresistible, fresh flavor.

Vanilla Extract: Adds a lovely depth to the flavor, enhancing the lemon without overpowering it.

Powdered Sugar: The smooth, silky texture that makes the frosting absolutely heavenly. It’s key to getting that perfectly creamy frosting.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this sweet masterpiece:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour your bundt pan (or loaf pan) to ensure the cake comes out effortlessly after baking. This small step makes a big difference!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. This is where the magic begins, so don’t rush this step—it’s key to a tender, fluffy cake.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Eggs

Add the sugar and beat until well combined. Then, one at a time, add the eggs, mixing well after each addition. This will help create a smooth batter with no lumps.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures a light, airy texture.

Step 5: Add the Lemon Zest and Juice

Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. The zest will add a lovely burst of fresh lemon flavor, while the juice will give the cake a tangy kick that balances out the sweetness.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out. Bake for about 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and fluffy. Add a little more powdered sugar if you like a thicker frosting.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top. Let it drip down the sides for that perfect, dreamy look.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Slice up this beauty and enjoy! Whether you’re serving it at a party or having a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

This cake is great on its own, but here are a few ideas to take it to the next level:

• Fresh Berries: Pair it with a side of fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a burst of sweetness and a pop of color.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a rich, indulgent touch.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or lemon sorbet would be perfect to complement the cake’s flavor and make it feel like a dessert dream.

Don’t forget about presentation! A beautifully arranged slice with a sprig of mint or an extra dusting of powdered sugar can really make this dessert feel special.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Prep Ahead: You can bake the cake a day ahead of time and store it at room temperature, covered, to let the flavors deepen.
• Make It Your Own: Experiment with different citrus fruits, like orange or lime, for a twist on the classic lemon flavor.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s also great frozen for up to 1 month—just thaw before serving.
• Customize the Frosting: For a richer flavor, try adding a touch of vanilla extract or more lemon juice to make the frosting extra tangy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the cream cheese with another type of cheese?
A1: While cream cheese is key to the texture and flavor of this cake, you could try mascarpone for a slightly lighter, sweeter flavor.

Q2: Can I use a different type of flour?
A2: Yes! You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute. Just make sure to use one that is suitable for baking, and keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.

Q3: Can I make the frosting without powdered sugar?
A3: It’s best to use powdered sugar for the smoothest frosting, but you could try using a granulated sugar substitute and blending it in a food processor to achieve a finer texture.

Q4: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
A4: Make sure to grease and flour your pan thoroughly. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance.

Q5: Can I use a bundt pan for this recipe?
A5: Yes, a bundt pan works perfectly for this cake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly—check for doneness after about 50 minutes.

Q6: Can I freeze the cake?
A6: Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Q7: Can I add more lemon juice to the frosting?
A7: Yes! If you love lemon, feel free to add a little more lemon juice to the frosting for an extra citrusy punch.

Q8: How do I make the cake extra moist?
A8: Make sure to not overbake the cake. A toothpick should come out clean but not dry when tested. You can also brush the cooled cake with a little simple syrup for extra moisture.

Q9: How long does the cake keep?
A9: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate it to extend the freshness for another day or two.

Q10: Can I make this cake in a different size pan?
A10: Yes! If using a different pan, adjust the baking time. A smaller pan may cook faster, while a larger pan may require more time.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is one of those desserts that turns an ordinary day into something special. It’s sweet, tangy, and oh-so-delicious, with a creamy frosting that’s the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re baking it for a party or simply treating yourself, this cake is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. So go ahead, bake up some joy—and don’t forget to share a slice with someone you love!

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