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Southern Lemon Cake

A moist and tangy Southern Lemon Cake with bright lemon flavor and a tender crumb, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
  6. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until just combined.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
  10. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes, then poke holes all over the top with a fork and drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm cake.
  11. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, serve the cake with fresh whipped cream and lemon slices.