Nothing says elegance and freshness quite like a Lemon Layer Cake. This delightful dessert is a perfect combination of zesty lemon flavors and light, fluffy cake layers that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this Lemon Layer Cake Martha Stewart recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant citrus taste and beautiful presentation.
Lemon Layer Cake Martha Stewart
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Yellow food coloring (optional)
For the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the lemon juice and buttermilk. Mix until just combined. Add a few drops of yellow food coloring if desired for a brighter color.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until combined and the frosting is smooth and creamy.
Assembling the Lemon Layer Cake:
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of lemon buttercream frosting on top.
2. Repeat with the remaining cake layers, stacking them on top of each other.
3. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top and sides of the cake to create a crumb coat.
4. Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to set the crumb coat.
5. Once set, frost the cake with the remaining lemon buttercream, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
6. Decorate with additional lemon zest, lemon slices, or edible flowers if desired.
There you have it – a stunning Lemon Layer Cake that is as delicious as it is beautiful. This recipe is perfect for any gathering, from birthdays to bridal showers, and will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the bright, citrusy flavors of this delightful cake and let it brighten up your day!
