Soft & Fluffy Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft & Fluffy Lemon Velvet Cake is a light, tender, citrus-infused cake with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Paired with tangy lemon cream cheese frosting, it creates a perfect balance of sweet and refreshing flavors—ideal for celebrations or afternoon tea.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 25 minutes

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 2 round cake pans (8 or 9-inch)
• Spatula
• Oven

Ingredients

For the Lemon Velvet Cake

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 3/4 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3–4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Notes

• Buttermilk makes the cake extra soft and moist.
• Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best natural flavor.
• Adjust powdered sugar depending on how thick you want the frosting.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
5. Mix in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla.
6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.

2. Bake the Cake

7. Divide batter evenly between pans.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.

3. Make the Frosting

10. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
11. Add lemon juice, zest, and vanilla.
12. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until fluffy and spreadable.

4. Assemble

13. Place one cake layer on a plate.
14. Spread frosting evenly on top.
15. Add second layer and frost the top and sides.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Per Slice)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 5g
• Sugar: 38g

Tips & Variations

• Add a lemon syrup soak for extra moisture.
• Decorate with lemon slices or white chocolate shavings.
• Chill before serving for cleaner slices.
• You can turn it into cupcakes (bake 18–20 minutes).