Lemon curd cake recipe has a bright, tangy flavor from fresh lemon juice and zest, balanced by the sweet, tender cake layers. The lemon curd adds a rich, silky texture with a refreshing citrus punch, while the frosting or cream layer softens the tartness, creating a smooth, flavorful bite.Ingredients include all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, salt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and buttermilk or yogurt for moisture.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in lemon zest and juice. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, until smooth.
Bake the Cake:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Lemon Curd:
In a small saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, whole egg, sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 7-10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in butter until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve for extra smoothness. Let it cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Frosting:
Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest, beating until smooth and spreadable. Adjust consistency with a little milk if needed.
Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of lemon curd over it. Top with the second cake layer. Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting all around, then chill for 15 minutes. Finish frosting the cake evenly.
Decorate and Serve:
Optionally, pipe extra frosting, sprinkle lemon zest, or add candied lemon slices on top. Slice and serve. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Note: Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smooth, fluffy cake. Lemon curd can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For extra zest, add more lemon peel to the frosting. Chill the cake briefly after the crumb coat for easier frosting application.