Lemon Pound Cake with Glaze

Welcome to your new favorite dessert! This lemon pound cake with glaze is a burst of sunshine in every bite. Its bright, citrusy flavor and tender, moist crumb make it perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or a sweet treat any time.

Easy to whip up and universally loved, this cake will steal the show with its tangy glaze and buttery richness. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Recipe Overview

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This lemon pound cake is all about bold flavor and simplicity. The cake boasts a rich, buttery base with a vibrant lemon kick, finished with a glossy, tangy glaze that soaks into every slice. It’s beginner-friendly, uses pantry staples, and bakes up beautifully golden. Ready in about an hour, it’s perfect for both casual snacking and elegant desserts.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Ingredients List

• For the Cake:
  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure for a tender crumb.
  • ½ tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise just enough for a light texture.
  • ¼ tsp baking soda – Works with lemon juice for a slight lift.
  • ¼ tsp salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened – Use room temperature for easy creaming and rich flavor.
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar – Sweetens and tenderizes the cake.
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature – Ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon zest (from about 2 lemons) – Adds intense citrus aroma.
  • ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for maximum zing.
  • ½ cup (120ml) sour cream, room temperature – Keeps the cake moist and adds subtle tang.
• For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.
  • 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice – Adjust for desired thickness and tartness.
  • 1 tsp lemon zest – Boosts the glaze’s citrusy punch.

Note: Fresh lemons are key for vibrant flavor. Room-temperature eggs and butter blend better, ensuring a silky batter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your cake slides out perfectly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. This step ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. This creates a tender, airy cake.
4. Add Eggs and Zest: Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Add lemon zest and mix until combined. The zest infuses the batter with a citrusy burst.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Add half the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Add sour cream and lemon juice, then the remaining dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix to keep the cake tender.
6. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil after 40 minutes. The kitchen will smell like a lemon orchard!
7. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents a soggy bottom.
8. Make the Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth. Adjust juice for a pourable consistency. Drizzle over the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides for a gorgeous finish.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can cause curdling. Let them sit out for 30 minutes before starting.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients combine to avoid a dense cake.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick near the center; a few moist crumbs are okay, but wet batter means it needs more time.
• Zest Like a Pro: Use a microplane for fine zest, avoiding the bitter white pith.
• Glaze Timing: Apply glaze to a cooled cake so it sets nicely without soaking in too much.

Serving Suggestions

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Slice this lemon pound cake into thick pieces and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. Pair it with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a sparkling lemonade to complement the citrusy notes. For a showstopping dessert, garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s perfect for brunches, baby showers, or a sunny afternoon pick-me-up.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The glaze keeps it moist.
• Refrigeration: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
• Freezing: Wrap unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and glaze before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is best for bright flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch. Use high-quality, 100% lemon juice for better taste.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

Why did my cake sink in the middle?
This could be from overmixing, opening the oven too early, or underbaking. Check doneness with a toothpick and avoid peeking until at least 40 minutes.

Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a handful of blueberries for a fun twist.

Conclusion

This lemon pound cake with glaze is your ticket to a slice of citrusy heaven. Its tender crumb and zesty glaze will have everyone asking for seconds. Bake it, share it, and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Your kitchen is about to become the happiest place in the house.