Introduction
Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon. This cake is not only incredibly moist but also has a perfectly balanced sweetness with a refreshing citrus punch.
The addition of cream cheese makes the cake dense yet soft, and the tangy lemon glaze on top adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the cake’s rich base.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want a delicious treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake is sure to impress.
The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers a sophisticated taste that makes it a favorite for many.
It’s a versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the combination of sweet and tart flavors, and the texture is sure to have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
To make the perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake, you will need a few basic ingredients, many of which are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups granulated sugar
5 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
These ingredients are simple, yet when combined, they create a cake with a rich, flavorful texture that will have your guests asking for the recipe.
The fresh lemon zest and juice are essential for bringing that perfect citrusy kick, while the cream cheese adds moisture and richness that elevates the texture of the cake.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare your baking pan. Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or two loaf pans to ensure the cake releases easily once baked.
Cream the butter and cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 3-4 minutes at medium speed.
Add the sugar: Gradually add the sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for incorporating air into the batter, giving the cake a light texture.
Incorporate the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. It’s important to mix thoroughly between each egg to ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated into the batter.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before being added to the wet mixture.
Add the dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter, cream cheese, and egg mixture.
Alternate between adding the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice during this step, mixing just until everything is combined.
Add lemon zest: Finally, gently fold in the fresh lemon zest. This will infuse the cake with that wonderful citrus aroma and flavor.
Pour the batter into the pan: Pour the prepared batter into your greased pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If you are using loaf pans, begin checking after 50 minutes, as the cake may bake faster in smaller pans.
Cool the cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully remove the cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variation
While the classic Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake is delicious on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try to add a personal touch or make the cake even more exciting.
For example, you can experiment with adding blueberries or raspberries to the batter to create a fruity twist. Fresh or frozen berries work well and add color and additional flavor to the cake.
Another option is to incorporate lemon extract along with the lemon zest for a more intense lemon flavor. If you prefer a slightly different texture, try using sour cream instead of some of the cream cheese for a tangy variation that adds richness and tenderness.
For a more decadent cake, you could fill the center of the bundt pan with a cream cheese filling or lemon curd.
This will give the cake an extra layer of flavor and surprise your guests with a delightful, gooey filling inside. If you’re looking to turn it into a more festive dessert, you could add a whipped cream topping or dust the cake with powdered sugar for a light, decorative finish.
Storage
To store your Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake and keep it fresh for as long as possible, follow these simple guidelines:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a couple of days, you can store it at room temperature. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It will stay good for about 2-3 days at room temperature.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, especially if you live in a warmer climate, you can refrigerate the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. The cake will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5-7 days.
Freezing: If you’d like to store the cake for an extended period, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply let the cake sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight.
Conclusion
Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the combination of rich, creamy texture and refreshing citrus flavor.
The addition of cream cheese makes this cake incredibly moist and tender, while the lemon zest and juice provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you make it for a special occasion or enjoy it with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to be a hit.
It’s an easy recipe to follow, with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special.
The variations allow you to get creative and personalize the cake to suit your tastes. Whether you store it for later or enjoy it right away, this cake is a treat that everyone will love.