Introduction
If you’re looking for a cake that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, this lemon raspberry cake is the answer. With its soft, fluffy crumb, zesty lemon flavor, and bursts of juicy raspberries, it’s a refreshing dessert that feels both indulgent and light. Perfect for spring gatherings, summer picnics, or special celebrations, this cake brings a burst of sunshine to every bite.
Ingredients
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2½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–5 lemons)
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1 tbsp lemon zest
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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¼ tsp salt
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4 large eggs, room temperature
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1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1½ cups fresh raspberries (lightly coated in 1 tbsp flour to prevent sinking)
For the glaze (optional):
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2–3 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the pan
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Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
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Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream butter and sugar
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In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
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Stir in lemon zest and juice.
Step 3: Mix dry ingredients
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Combine batter
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Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with sour cream.
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Fold gently until just combined—do not overmix.
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Gently fold in raspberries coated with flour.
Step 5: Bake
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Pour batter into the prepared cake pan.
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Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let cool completely before glazing or serving.
Step 6: Add glaze (optional)
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Whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth.
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Drizzle over the cooled cake for an extra citrusy finish.
Tips for Success
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Coat raspberries in flour to keep them from sinking to the bottom.
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For extra flavor, brush the warm cake with lemon syrup before glazing.
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This cake can also be baked as cupcakes—adjust baking time to 18–20 minutes.
Variations
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Lemon Blueberry Cake: Swap raspberries for blueberries.
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Layered Cake: Double the recipe and stack with lemon cream cheese frosting.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Light, fluffy texture with vibrant citrus flavor.
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Fresh raspberries add natural sweetness and juiciness.
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Easy to make, but elegant enough for special occasions.
Conclusion
This lemon raspberry cake is a refreshing dessert that shines with natural flavors and simple ingredients. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the balance of tangy lemon and sweet raspberries wrapped in a soft, moist cake. Whether you serve it with a glaze, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s a recipe that will brighten any table.