A classic Southern-style lemon cake with a rich, tangy lemon cheese filling and a smooth lemon frosting—perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a bright, citrusy treat!
Ingredients:
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For the Cake:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Zest of 2 lemons
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Cheese Filling:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs, beaten
½ cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
For the Lemon Frosting:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk (as needed)
Instructions:
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In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter and stir in sugar, beaten eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to overcook.
Remove from heat and let cool completely. It will thicken as it cools.

In a bowl, beat butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla.
Add heavy cream as needed until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of lemon cheese filling on top.
Repeat with the second layer. Top with the final cake layer.
Frost the top and sides of the cake with the lemon frosting.

Decorate with lemon zest, lemon slices, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Slice and enjoy!
Nutrition & Time:
Prep Time: 25 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 50 min + cooling
Calories: ~450 kcal per slice | Servings: 12
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