Easy Moist Lemon Cake Recipe (2024)

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclosure policy.

When you want a lemon cake that is moist, lemony, and scrumptious, look no further than this recipe. This cake contains Buttermilk which helps it to remain moist and delicious.

There is so much lemon flavor in this moist lemon cake that there is a great zing to it.

This is the type of dessert that should be shared for meetings, parties or even birthdays. The crust is crunchy due to the sugar topping which brings the whole cake to new heights.

One benefit to Lemon desserts is that they are high in Vitamin C, which makes it healthy, right? Well, at least you get a dose of Vitamin C each time to grab a piece of this delicious cake.

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

What makes this such a great cake?

This cake is super moist, versatile, is made very easily, and tastes great. There is a healthy amount of lemon flavor in this cake that will make you want more.

What is the secret to a moist cake?

This Easy Lemon Cake contains Buttermilk. Buttermilk keeps the cake moist, just the way you want cakes to be.

Does using lemon juice in the cake help it?

Lemon juice can help and it can hurt the cake. When the juice reacts with the baking soda or baking powder it helps the cake to rise. However, using too much will cause the cake to be dense.

Can I add some fresh fruit?

You can add in fresh fruit such as blueberries or strawberries, blackberries or raspberries. Just be sure to dust the fruit with a slight amount of flour to prevent the juices from coloring the cake.

Want more lemon? Try out my lemon loaf recipe or these simple lemon squares.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• Cake flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Buttermilk
• Lemon zest from 3 lemons
• Lemon juice from 3 lemons
• Vanilla extract
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Eggs, room temperature
• Egg yolk

For the Glaze:

• Confectioners’ sugar
• Lemon juice
• Buttermilk

How to make a moist lemon cake recipe

Preheat the oven to 325°. Grease a 9×13 inch square baking pan and set aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

Combine buttermilk, lemon juice, and vanilla in a liquid measuring cup.

In the bowl of a stand mixer beat granulated sugar and lemon zest until moist and fragrant, about 1 minute. Transfer 1/4 cup of the sugar mixture to a small bowl, cover, and set aside.

Add butter to the remaining sugar mixture.

Beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

Beat in eggs and yolk, one at a time, until combined. Reduce speed to low. Add flour mixture in 3 additions, alternating with 2 additions of the buttermilk mixture

Mix until smooth, about 30 seconds.

Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top with an offset spatula.

Bake until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, 25 to 35 minutes. Transfer the cake to a wire rack and let cool 10 minutes.

To Make the glaze:

In a medium bowl whisk confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and buttermilk until smooth.

Spread the glaze over the warm cake using an offset spatula and sprinkle evenly with the reserved sugar mixture.

Cool completely, for at least 2 hours. Serve.

Enjoy!!

How should I store this to keep it fresh?

This cake should be covered and then placed in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 days. You could keep the cake covered on the counter for up to 24 hours.

Can I freeze the Easy Lemon Cake?

This cake will do great in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure it is in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly a few times.

Want More Cake Recipes?

If you love cake recipes, you are going to love these recipes.

Chocolate Earthquake Cake Recipe – Looking for the best Chocolate Earthquake Cake Recipe? Look no further. Chocolate cake mixed with cheesecake mixed in is the best combination of dessert you can ask for.

Instant Pot Pumpkin Cake Recipe – Wait until you try this amazing Instant Pot Pumpkin Cake with Chocolate Chips. This pumpkin cake recipe is perfect for pumpkin spice season.

Rum Cake – Looking for a delicious moist rum cake recipe? This is an easy rum cake that is the best thing I have ever eaten. You have to try it to believe it.

Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake – This Cherry Dr. Pepper cake is a hit for adults and kids alike with its delicious cherry frosting and splash of Dr. Pepper flavor.