Description
This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is a soft, zesty cake topped with a sweet citrus glaze. Easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, this recipe brings fresh lemon zest and juice together in a cake that’s both fluffy and tangy. Made in just one bowl!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup whole milk
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Cream Sugar and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavor
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until smooth, but be careful not to overmix.
- Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the cake is cooling, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Add Poppy Seeds: Add 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for extra texture.
- Use Other Citrus: Swap lemon for lime or orange juice for a different citrus twist.
- Top with Berries: Add fresh raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and freshness.
- Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk, and substitute eggs with flax eggs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
