Name: Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 box white cake mix; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup melted butter; 2 eggs; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 1 8-oz package cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 8-oz container Cool Whip

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When life gives you lemons, you don’t just make lemonade—you make a luscious Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting! This cake is the perfect blend of zesty flavor and creamy sweetness, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply treating yourself, this cake will have everyone coming back for seconds. With the tang of buttermilk and the delightful zing of fresh lemon, it’s a refreshing dessert that’s just as comforting as it is delicious.

Why Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is Worth Your Time

This cake is not just any ordinary dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that dance together harmoniously. The combination of buttermilk and lemon creates a moist and tender crumb, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, velvety finish. It’s easy to make, using a box cake mix as a base, which simplifies the process without compromising on taste. The result is a beautiful cake that looks as good as it tastes, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying with your family.

Ingredient Rundown

To whip up this delightful Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 box white cake mix – This serves as the foundation for your cake, providing structure and sweetness.
1 cup buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang that pairs beautifully with lemon.
1/2 cup melted butter – Ensures a rich flavor and tender texture.
2 eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and providing richness.
1 lemon, juiced and zested – Infuses the cake with bright, citrusy flavor.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor to the cake.
1/2 tsp almond extract – Offers a subtle nuttiness that complements the lemon.
1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened – The star of your frosting, providing a creamy base.
1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting without making it too heavy.
1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake batter for a delightful flavor.
1 (8-oz) container Cool Whip – Lightens the frosting for a fluffy finish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you start baking, gather the following tools and equipment:

Mixing bowls – For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk – Essential for mixing the batter and ensuring a smooth consistency.
Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to a perfect cake.
9×13 inch baking pan – The ideal size for this cake, allowing for even baking.
Spatula – For spreading the frosting evenly on the cake.
Cooling rack – Helps cool the cake evenly after baking.

Cook Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Like This

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delightful Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure the cake comes out easily once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the box of white cake mix, buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Use a whisk to mix the ingredients until well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined. Fold in the Cool Whip until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. You can also decorate the cake with additional lemon zest or lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice the cake into squares and serve. This Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect on its own or paired with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

This versatile cake can be enjoyed all year round with a few simple adaptations:

Add fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a summer twist.
Incorporate a layer of lemon curd between the cake and frosting for an extra zing.
Top the cake with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical feel.
Use this cake recipe as a base for cupcakes for a fun party treat.

Mistakes That Ruin Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Lemon Buttermilk Cake turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to an imbalanced cake.
Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake; mix just until combined.
Baking at the wrong temperature can cause the cake to rise unevenly or burn.
Not allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting can result in a melty mess.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

To keep your Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting fresh and delicious:

If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and frost it when completely cool.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, you might also like these recipes:

Crispy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts With Lemon – A zesty side dish that pairs beautifully with any meal.
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Slices – A delightful cookie that brings together tart cranberry and bright orange flavors.

That’s a Wrap

With its bright, zesty flavor and creamy frosting, the Lemon Buttermilk Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The simplicity of using a box cake mix makes it easy for anyone to whip up, while the fresh lemon and creamy frosting elevate it to something truly special. So gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious cake!

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