Introduction
Welcome to a slice of sunshine! This Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Cake will whisk you away to citrus heaven with every tender bite. Picture layers of fluffy, lemon-infused cake complemented by a rich and tangy cheesecake filling, all dressed in a luscious whipped cream frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress, making it a delightful addition to your dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
For the Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure an easy release.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Incorporate the eggs, adding them one at a time and mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the fresh lemon zest and fragrant vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Divide the luscious batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the creamy lemon cheesecake filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until the mixture is deliciously smooth.
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate and spread the creamy lemon cheesecake filling generously on top. Add the second layer of cake over the filling.
- For a delightful finish, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until stiff peaks form.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the whipped cream, spreading it evenly for a beautiful presentation.
- Finally, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing a dream!
Notes or Tips
- You can add more lemon zest if you prefer a stronger citrus flavor.
- For added texture, consider folding in some crushed graham crackers into the cheesecake filling.
- This cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of cake baking is all about precision and patience. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting, as this creates a smooth batter that bakes evenly. Also, always ensure to measure your flour correctly—spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag, to avoid a dense cake. Lastly, cooling the cakes completely before frosting is crucial for preventing melting and creating that perfect, fluffy finish.
FAQ
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version!
How should I store the leftovers?
Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to a month.
Conclusion
Now that you have all the steps to create this Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Cake, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking! As you blend the flavors and watch your delightful creation come to life, you’ll not only fill your home with a wonderful aroma but also make memories that will last long after the last crumb is gone. Enjoy each slice as it brings a bright burst of flavor to your day!