Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brightens up any gathering, look no further! This Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing is a favorite in my kitchen. It perfectly combines the refreshing zest of lemons with a soft, buttery crumb. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a delightful addition to your brunch table, this cake is sure to impress. It’s not just delicious; it offers a lovely balance of sweetness and tang that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Making this cake is a breeze, so even if you’re new to baking, you’ll find it easy and rewarding. The glossy icing adds an extra touch of elegance, making it perfect for family gatherings or afternoon tea with friends. Trust me; every slice will make your taste buds dance with joy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re short on time or experience, this recipe is straightforward and quick to follow.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet and tangy flavor combination of lemon.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual weeknight desserts to special gatherings, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this cake in advance and simply ice it before serving!
• Gorgeous Presentation: With its shiny icing and vibrant lemons, this cake looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this delightful Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing! Just simple and wholesome items that you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ¾ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
• 2 tbsp milk or cream (for icing)

Variations

This Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or personal preferences:

• Add Blueberries: Toss in some fresh blueberries for an extra burst of flavor and color.
• Use Almond Extract: Substitute vanilla with almond extract for a nutty twist that complements the lemon beautifully.
• Try Different Citrus: Experiment with lime or orange juice and zest for a refreshing change.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While that’s warming up, you can prepare your cake pan by greasing it well.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the baking powder evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add in the sugar while mixing until it reaches a fluffy consistency. This step is important because it incorporates air into the batter, which helps your cake rise!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Next, incorporate the eggs one at a time into your butter-sugar mixture. After that, mix in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. This is where all those bright flavors come together!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add those dry ingredients into your wet mixture! Alternate adding in the dry mix with milk until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep your cake tender!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it; every oven is different! A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s done.

Step 7: Prepare The Icing

While your cake cools down, whisk together powdered sugar with milk until you reach your desired consistency for icing. Once your cake has cooled completely, drizzle this glossy icing over the top for that perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—a delightful Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing that’s sure to brighten anyone’s day! Enjoy each slice knowing you’ve created something truly special right at home.

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing

Baking can be a joyful adventure, and these pro tips will help you create the best lemon coffee cake with icing you’ve ever made!

• Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will give your cake that vibrant, zesty flavor that bottled alternatives just can’t match. The natural oils found in the zest enhance the aroma and taste, making each bite more delightful.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and allows for better incorporation of air, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.

• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, while gentle mixing ensures a tender crumb.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake around 25 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing your cake to cool before icing is crucial. If you ice it too soon, the icing may melt and slide off, but once cooled, it will sit beautifully on top!

How to Serve Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing

Presenting your lemon coffee cake with icing can enhance its appeal and make it even more enjoyable for your guests. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of fresh strawberries or blueberries adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor that complements the citrus in the cake.
• Lemon slices: Thin slices of lemon placed strategically on top not only look stunning but also add an extra hint of citrus aroma.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint provide a refreshing touch that brightens up the presentation while adding an aromatic element.

Side Dishes

• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea pairs beautifully with the lemon flavors in the cake, making it an ideal choice for afternoon gatherings.
• Greek yogurt: A scoop of plain or vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt offers creaminess that balances out the sweetness of the cake. You can even drizzle honey over it for added sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits adds freshness to your dessert spread. The variety of textures and flavors will make it more enticing.
• Coffee: For those who love a classic pairing, serve this lemon coffee cake alongside fresh-brewed coffee. The rich flavor contrasts nicely with the zesty brightness of the cake.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends alike with your delicious lemon coffee cake with icing! Enjoy every moment as you share this lovely treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing is not only delightful to eat but also perfect for meal prep! You can bake it ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator where it can last for about a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cake, remove it from the fridge or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For slices, microwave on a low setting for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon in the Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing?

Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with oranges or limes. Just be sure to adjust the zest and juice measurements according to your chosen fruit’s flavor intensity.

How do I make my Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing more moist?

To enhance moisture, ensure you’re using room temperature eggs and don’t overmix the batter. Adding a bit more lemon juice can also add extra moisture while enhancing flavor.

Can I substitute butter with another fat in this Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing recipe?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil or applesauce as alternatives. However, keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

How should I store my Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing after baking?

Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Lemon Coffee Cake with Icing! Its bright flavor and moist texture make it a truly special treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon slice, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your results—I’d love to hear how your creation turns out!