The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe: A Classic Favorite
Who can resist a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth pound cake? Especially when it’s brightened up with the fresh flavor of lemon and the richness of cream cheese!
Every time I bake this Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake, the sweet, citrusy aroma fills the kitchen and reminds me why I love baking so much. It’s comforting, elegant, and perfect for everything from family gatherings to special brunches.
This cake brings together the soft, dense texture of a traditional pound cake with the zing of fresh lemon and the subtle creaminess from cream cheese. It’s a foolproof recipe that’s impressive enough for guests but simple enough to make any day feel a little more special.
Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: MediumServings
1
slicePrep Time
30
minutesCooking Time
1
hour20
minutesTotal Time
1
hour50
minutesLemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a luscious dessert where creamy richness meets vibrant citrus. The cream cheese not only adds tenderness but also a gentle tang that complements the lemon beautifully. Whether you serve it with berries, a simple glaze, or enjoy it plain, this cake is always a showstopper.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
3 cups (600g) granulated sugar
6 large eggs, room temperature
3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
A few essential kitchen tools will make preparing this cake even easier and ensure it bakes to perfection. Here’s what you’ll need on hand.
– 10–12 cup Bundt pan or tube pan
– Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
– Mixing bowls
– Rubber spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Zester or fine grater
– Wire cooling rack
– Whisk (for optional glaze)
How to Make the Best Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake
- Prepare the Pan and Ingredients
Grease and flour your Bundt or tube pan generously. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature—this is key for a smooth batter. - Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes). Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is very light and pale.
– Tip: Take your time creaming; this traps air in the batter, giving your cake a lovely lift. - Add the Eggs One by One
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to keep everything well mixed. - Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined.
– Helpful Note: Avoid overmixing once you add the flour—this keeps the cake tender. - Add the Flavorings
Gently fold in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Your batter should smell wonderfully lemony and creamy! - Fill the Pan and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 75 to 85 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
– Baking Tip: Check for doneness starting at 70 minutes, as ovens can vary. - Cool the Cake Properly
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely for about 2 hours before slicing or glazing.
Notes
- Batter: You can prepare the batter a few hours ahead. Keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.
- Cake: Bake the cake up to 2 days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped at room temperature.
- Glaze: If using glaze, add it fresh for the best presentation and taste.
Storage Instructions
Wondering how to keep your pound cake moist and delicious for days? These simple storage tips will help you enjoy it fresh longer.
- At Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Refrigerate for up to 7 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Extra Tips for Success
Baking is part art, part science. These extra tips will make sure your Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake turns out perfect every time.
- Measure your flour correctly: Always spoon and level your flour to avoid a dense cake.
- Use fresh lemons: Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same bright flavor.
- Room temperature ingredients: They blend more smoothly and trap more air, making your cake light yet rich.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Got questions about the recipe? You’re not alone! Let’s answer some common concerns to help make your baking experience stress-free.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
It’s best to use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Low-fat versions may make the cake slightly less rich.
What if I don’t have a Bundt pan?
You can use two standard loaf pans instead. Bake at 325°F for about 60–70 minutes and check with a toothpick for doneness.
Why did my cake sink?
Overmixing or underbaking are common culprits. Make sure to beat the butter/sugar mixture thoroughly but fold the flour gently.
Ingredient Selection Tips
Choosing the right ingredients makes a big difference:
- Butter: Use high-quality, unsalted butter for the best flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat block cream cheese (not whipped) works best.
- Lemons: Organic lemons are ideal since you’ll be using the zest.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can make it even more special. Here are some fun ideas to try.
- Serve slices with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
- For a brunch twist, top with a spoonful of lemon curd.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)
- Calories: 410
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Every slice of this Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake feels like a little celebration—rich, tender, and bright with fresh lemon flavor. Whether you’re sharing it at a brunch, gifting it to someone special, or sneaking a slice with your morning coffee, this cake brings a bit of sunshine to any moment. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.
