Lemon Pound Cake Recipe

Lemon pound cake is a timeless treat that blends the richness of buttery pound cake with the refreshing zest of lemons. Its moist texture, vibrant citrus flavor, and irresistible lemon glaze make it the epitome of a perfect dessert. Whether you’re preparing an easy lemon dessert for spring gatherings, an afternoon tea party, or simply indulging yourself, this homemade lemon pound cake recipe promises to deliver every time. Packed with a zesty lemon flavor and topped with a sweet yet tangy glaze, it’s a classic pound cake recipe you’ll want to make over and over again.

The Appeal of Lemon Pound Cake

Imagine biting into a soft, buttery lemon cake infused with the bright essence of fresh lemons. The tangy lemon syrup glaze seeps into every crumb, enhancing its moistness and ensuring every slice is bursting with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this classic dessert combines elegance and comfort. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, even for a beginner in the kitchen! Follow our step-by-step instructions below to create a homemade lemon cake that’s sure to impress.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to achieving a moist lemon pound cake lies in using high-quality ingredients and following the right techniques. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 2 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 4 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Syrup:

• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Step-by-Step Recipe for Lemon Pound Cake

This recipe is straightforward yet packed with tips for ensuring the best possible results. Every detail matters when crafting your perfect buttery lemon cake, so follow these instructions carefully.

Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and adjust the oven rack to the middle position.
• Generously grease and flour a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Gather all ingredients at room temperature—this step is crucial for a smooth batter and even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, cream the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). This step incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the cake’s soft texture.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure the mixture is fully combined.

Step 5: Incorporate the Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Combine the buttermilk, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a separate small bowl.
• With the mixer on low, alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk mixture to the batter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix—stir just until combined.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

• Transfer the thick, luscious batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake during the final 10 minutes to avoid over-baking!

Step 7: Prepare the Lemon Syrup

• While the cake cools in the pan for about 10 minutes, prepare the syrup. Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, then stir in lemon juice.

Step 8: Brush on the Syrup

• Poke small holes in the top of the cake with a skewer or fork. Gently brush the warm syrup over the cake to infuse it with additional moisture and flavor.

Step 9: Make the Lemon Glaze

• Whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and lemon juice in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency if necessary; it should be thick but pourable.
• Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for that bakery-style finish.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

• Once the glaze has set (about 15 minutes), slice and enjoy the tangy, buttery goodness of your homemade lemon pound cake.

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Pound Cake

1. Use Fresh Lemons

Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest deliver the brightest, most authentic flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, which lacks the same freshness.

2. Don’t Skip the Zest

Lemon zest contains essential oils that boost the aroma and flavor of the cake. Use a microplane grater to zest only the yellow part of the peel (avoid the bitter white pith).

3. Room Temperature Ingredients

Room temperature butter, eggs, and buttermilk mix more easily, ensuring a smooth batter with an even crumb.

4. Avoid Overmixing

Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated for a tender texture.

5. Glazing Tips

Always wait for the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze. A warm cake can cause the glaze to melt, losing its glossy finish.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Variations:

• Lemon Poppyseed Pound Cake

Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for extra texture.

• Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake

Fold 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter (toss them lightly in flour to prevent sinking).

• Bundt-Style Lemon Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 12-cup bundt pan. Bake for 60–70 minutes, and double the glaze for extra coverage.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Pair with fresh berries for a beautiful contrast in flavor and color.
• Enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Pound Cake

This moist lemon pound cake is everything a spring dessert recipe should be—bright, zesty, and bursting with citrusy goodness. The lemon syrup glaze ensures it stays tender and flavorful with every bite, while the lemon glaze provides a beautiful finish. Whether you’re serving it for a festive gathering or keeping it all to yourself, this classic lemon dessert is a recipe worth saving.

Try this easy lemon dessert today and enjoy a taste of sunshine in every slice!

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