Try our Mississippi Mud Potatoes recipe for the ultimate comfort food experience! This easy potato casserole features tender baked potatoes, creamy mayonnaise, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and holidays, this savory dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Cake
For the Cake:
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ cup butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 egg
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cream Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
Preparation Steps
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan or pie dish to ensure the cake doesn’t stick and comes out easily.
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth. This step is crucial for creating a fluffy and moist cake.
Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well to combine all the flavors evenly.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure a tender cake.
Prepare the Cake Batter:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly.
Prepare the Cream Layer:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add in the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined. Then, add the egg and lemon zest, and continue to mix until the cream layer is smooth and creamy.
Top the Cake Batter:
Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in an even layer. This cream layer will add a delightful richness to the cake.
Baking Process
Bake the Cake:
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 38-40 minutes, or until the top is just starting to brown. The cake should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when done.
Cool the Cake:
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps the cream layer to set and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar if desired before serving. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee and makes a lovely addition to any dessert table.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Cake
Choose Fresh Lemons:
Using fresh lemon juice and zest is key to achieving the best flavor. The zest contains essential oils that add a vibrant lemony taste.
Room Temperature Ingredients:
Ensure that the cream cheese and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This helps to create a smooth and creamy consistency for the cream layer.
Don’t Overmix the Batter:
Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix the ingredients until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
Variations of the Recipe
Add Berries:
Incorporate fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter for an added burst of flavor and color.
Citrus Twist:
Experiment with different citrus fruits such as lime or orange to create a unique twist on the classic lemon butter cake.
Gluten-Free Option:
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What if I don’t have a 9-inch cake pan?
You can use an 8-inch cake pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on the cake and test for doneness with a toothpick.
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