Name: Quick Delicious Lemon Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 tbsp); 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or regular yogurt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortless this cake is to make. Everything comes together in one bowl, and there’s no need for fancy tools or techniques. The combination of fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and yogurt makes each bite incredibly flavorful and moist. Whether I’m baking for guests or just for myself, this lemon loaf is always a hit.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 tablespoons)
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or regular yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Optional Lemon Glaze:
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). I grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

In a medium bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then set it aside. In a larger bowl, I mix the oil, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, yogurt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Next, I fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently, being careful not to overmix. Then I pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

I bake it for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Once done, I let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting it out and letting it cool completely on a wire rack.

For the optional glaze, I whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and drizzle it over the cooled cake, letting it set before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Calories: Approximately 270 kcal per slice

Variations

Sometimes I swap the lemon for orange or lime for a different citrus twist. I also like adding a handful of blueberries to the batter for a fruity burst. For a slightly richer texture, I use sour cream instead of yogurt. And when I want something extra special, I top it with a thin layer of lemon curd before serving.

storage/reheating

I keep this cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. When reheating, I let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

How do I know when the lemon cake is fully baked?

I insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work too.

What can I use instead of yogurt?

Sour cream is a great substitute for yogurt, offering a similarly moist texture.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I just double all the ingredients and bake it in two loaf pans or one large pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.

Why did my cake sink in the middle?

Overmixing or underbaking can cause the cake to sink. I always make sure to mix gently and check for doneness before removing it from the oven.

Conclusion

This quick and delicious lemon cake is a go-to recipe for me whenever I crave something sweet, bright, and easy to make. With its fresh flavor and tender crumb, it’s a reliable treat that never fails to impress. Whether glazed or plain, it’s always a slice of sunshine on my plate.

Quick Delicious Lemon Cake