This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to any occasion. Perfect for birthdays, spring parties, or simply a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, this cake combines moist layers with a tangy cream cheese frosting. The vibrant lemon flavor shines through, making it a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Step 5: Add Acidic Mixture
- Step 6: Bake the Cakes
- Step 7: Cool the Cakes
- Step 8: Make the Frosting
- Step 9: Frost Your Cake
- How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- At a Party
- With Fresh Berries
- For Afternoon Tea
- As a Dessert Bar
- How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Best Side Dishes for Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other citrus flavors?
- What makes this cake “velvet”?
- How do I achieve the best frosting consistency?
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright Flavor: The zesty lemon adds a refreshing touch that elevates this cake above traditional sweets.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the combination of buttermilk and vegetable oil, this cake stays incredibly moist.
- Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday party or a simple gathering, this cake fits perfectly into any event.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginners can create this stunning dessert without stress.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant color and creamy frosting make it visually appealing on any table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your lemon velvet cake, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 2 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Having various sizes allows you to efficiently combine dry and wet ingredients.
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and helps achieve a light, fluffy batter with less effort.
- Cooling rack: It ensures even cooling for the cakes, preventing sogginess and allowing for easier frosting.
Ingredients
This sunny lemon velvet cake is pure citrus bliss! The tender cake layers and luscious lemon cream cheese frosting make for the ultimate taste of springtime.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening
- 2 large eggs
- 1-2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon extract
- 1 heaping tsp lemon zest
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar
- 1/3 cup hot lemon water (2 tbsp lemon juice mixed with 1/3 cup hot water)
- 4-6 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp lemon extract
- 1 1/2 heaping tsp lemon zest
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar
- 1-2 tsp lemon juice (if needed)
- 4-5 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
How to Make Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to prevent sticking during baking.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
All-purpose flour
Cake flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Ensure these dry ingredients are well combined for an even rise in the cake.
Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together:
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil
Butter-flavored shortening
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon zest
Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed mixture while alternating with buttermilk. Mix just until combined.
Step 5: Add Acidic Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix:
White vinegar
Hot lemon water
Add this mixture to your batter along with food coloring if desired. Stir gently until blended.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until centers are just set.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Remove from oven and let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
For the frosting, beat together:
Softened cream cheese
Softened unsalted butter
Once fluffy, mix in:
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon zest
And gradually add powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 9: Frost Your Cake
Once cooled, frost each layer of your cake generously with lemon cream cheese frosting. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired.
How to Serve Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is all about enhancing its delightful flavors and vibrant appearance. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will make your cake shine.
At a Party
- Slice elegantly: Cut the cake into neat slices for easy serving at parties.
- Garnish with zest: Add extra lemon zest on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
With Fresh Berries
- Berry medley: Serve slices alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity contrast.
- Berry sauce: Drizzle a berry compote over the cake for added sweetness and color.
For Afternoon Tea
- Tea pairing: Serve with a cup of herbal or black tea to complement the lemon flavor.
- Miniature portions: Cut smaller pieces for an elegant afternoon treat.
As a Dessert Bar
- Dessert station: Set up a dessert bar with different toppings like whipped cream, nuts, and chocolate shavings for guests to personalize their slice.
- Lemon curd option: Offer lemon curd as an additional layer of flavor on the side.

How to Perfect Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
To achieve the best results with your Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
- Measure accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugar to maintain the right texture.
- Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Cool completely: Make sure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste your frosting and adjust the powdered sugar and lemon juice to get your desired sweetness level.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Velvet Cake can elevate the dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this citrusy delight.
- Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing frozen treat that echoes the lemon flavors in the cake.
- Coconut Macaroons: Chewy and sweet, they provide a delightful texture contrast.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
- Minty Green Salad: A light salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette complements the cake’s richness.
- Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese pair well with citrus desserts.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Sweet chocolate enhances the tartness of lemon while adding visual appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting can be delightful, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate amounts of flour and sugar.
- Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cake. Invest in an oven thermometer to check accuracy.
- Ignoring cooling times: Removing the cake too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil for up to 3 months.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before freezing to maintain texture.
Reheating Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting.
Can I use other citrus flavors?
Yes! You can substitute lemon with lime or orange for a delicious twist.
What makes this cake “velvet”?
The combination of all-purpose flour and cake flour creates a soft, velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
How do I achieve the best frosting consistency?
Add powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired thickness. If it’s too thick, add a little lemon juice or milk.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the layers ahead and frost them on the day you plan to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delightful but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding fresh berries or different citrus flavors. With its moist texture and zesty frosting, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Lemon Velvet Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a refreshing dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess. This delightful cake features moist, fluffy layers infused with zesty lemon flavor, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Ideal for birthdays, spring parties, or simply as an afternoon treat, this cake is sure to impress your guests and brighten any occasion. With easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll create a beautiful cake that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on any dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening
- 2 large eggs
- 1–2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon extract
- 1 heaping tsp lemon zest
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar
- 1/3 cup hot lemon water (2 tbsp lemon juice mixed with 1/3 cup hot water)
- 4–6 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp lemon extract
- 1 1/2 heaping tsp lemon zest
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tsp lemon juice (if needed)
- 4–5 drops yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat sugar, oil, shortening, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon zest until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk until just combined.
- Add the vinegar mixed with hot lemon water to the batter and stir gently.
- Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until set in the center.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy; then mix in vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon zest, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Once cooled, frost each layer generously with lemon cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice - approximately 85g
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 265mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg