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A rich lemon butter cake with a soft, moist crumb and bright citrus finish that works for celebrations, tea breaks, or a simple dessert.
Lemon butter cake is the kind of bake that feels familiar in the best way. The crumb is rich and soft, the lemon keeps the flavor from feeling heavy, and the whole cake works just as well plain as it does dressed up for a gathering.
The method is classic: cream butter and sugar properly, add the eggs gradually, and fold in the dry ingredients gently so the batter stays light. That process does more for the final texture than any decoration on top.
This is also a reliable cake to keep in your rotation because it slices well, travels well, and pairs easily with fruit, cream, or a simple glaze if you want to make it feel more finished.
Creaming the butter and sugar until it turns light and fluffy helps build the structure that gives butter cake its fine crumb. The lemon juice and cream also help keep the batter tender.
It is worth stopping as soon as the flour disappears. Overmixing at that stage can make the cake heavier than it needs to be.
Let the cake cool before unmolding so the crumb can firm up properly. It is good on its own, but berries, whipped cream, or a light lemon glaze all work well if you want more contrast.
Keep it covered at room temperature for a couple of days, or refrigerate for longer storage. Bring slices back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
A rich lemon butter cake with a soft, moist crumb and bright citrus finish that works for celebrations, tea breaks, or a simple dessert.

Sift the dry ingredients at least twice for a lighter crumb.
Make your own sour cream by mixing lemon juice with cream.
Cream butter and sugar thoroughly to ensure a soft texture.
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Sift the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda) at least twice.
Mix lemon juice with cream to make homemade sour cream.
In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the lemon zest, then the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Gradually incorporate the sifted dry ingredients and sour cream mixture alternately, mixing just until combined.
Preheat the oven to 160°C (350°F).
Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch bundt pan or your preferred cake mold.
Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool before removing from the pan.
Slice and serve with fresh berries or vanilla ice cream.
6/18/2025
Loved how fluffy it came out. I topped it with whipped cream and strawberries for extra indulgence.
2/16/2025
Took this to a potluck and it disappeared fast. Everyone asked for the recipe—big win!
1/15/2025
The texture was perfect, soft and rich. I found it a bit sweet for my taste—next time I’ll reduce the sugar a little.
10/14/2024
I love how easy this recipe is to follow. My kitchen smelled heavenly while it was baking.
5/13/2024
I used orange zest instead of lemon and it still turned out great. Such a versatile base recipe.
12/11/2023
Followed the recipe exactly and it turned out so moist and buttery. I added a lemon glaze on top—amazing!
8/10/2023
I made this for my son’s birthday and everyone loved it! The lemon zest really makes the flavor pop. Will definitely bake this again.
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Serving Size: 100 grams
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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