Description
This bright and tangy Lemon Curd Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the fresh flavors of lemon with a moist, fluffy cake and creamy frosting. Featuring layers of lemon-flavored cake filled with luscious lemon curd and a smooth cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for springtime celebrations or any occasion that calls for a refreshing citrus treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 Boxes Lemon Cake Mix
- 6 Eggs
- 2 Cups Milk
- 1 Cup Butter, softened
- 1 Lemon, zested and juiced
For the Frosting
- 1 Package (8 Ounces) Cream Cheese, softened
- ½ Cup Butter, softened
- 3-4 Cups Powdered Sugar
- 3-4 Tablespoons Heavy Cream
- 1 Lemon, zested and juiced
For Assembly and Garnish
- 2 Cups Lemon Curd
- White Chocolate Shavings
- Lemon Slices
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cake pans with parchment paper rounds and spray them lightly with nonstick baking spray to ensure easy removal of the cakes.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, eggs, milk, softened butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and evenly combined.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, softened cream cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add heavy cream a tablespoon at a time until you achieve your desired frosting consistency.
- Level the Cake Layers: Place the first cooled cake layer onto your cake board. Use a cake leveler or serrated knife to trim off any domed tops to create an even surface for stacking.
- Apply Frosting Border and Lemon Curd: Pipe a border of frosting around the edge of the first cake layer to create a barrier. Fill the center with approximately ½ cup of lemon curd, spreading it evenly within the border.
- Repeat Layering: Continue layering the remaining cake pieces, repeating the frosting border and lemon curd filling with each layer.
- Crumb Coat: Apply a thin coat of frosting over the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Refrigerate the cake for 15 to 20 minutes to set the crumb coat.
- Final Frosting Coat: After chilling, apply a second, smooth layer of frosting to the top and sides of the cake.
- Top with Lemon Curd and Garnish: Spoon the remaining lemon curd evenly over the top of the frosted cake. Garnish with white chocolate shavings, additional piped frosting decorations, and fresh lemon slices as desired.
Notes
- Using a cake leveler helps create uniform, flat layers for easier stacking.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar and heavy cream in frosting based on your preferred sweetness and texture.
- Homemade lemon curd can be used in place of store-bought for a fresher taste.
- Refrigerate the cake after applying the crumb coat to prevent crumbs from mixing into the final frosting layer.
- Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.