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Lemon Cake with Lemon Glaze

A soft, citrusy cake topped with a sweet lemon glaze that soaks into every slice.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 Servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Lemon Cake
  • 2 cups plain flour
  • 4 tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1.25 cups caster sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2/3 cup vegetable or canola oil
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 1/2 tbsp plain yogurt extra
  • 1 1/2 tbsp grated lemon rind
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
For the Lemon Glaze
  • 1 3/4 cups icing sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Start by heating the oven to 170°C. Grease and line a loaf pan or round cake tin with baking paper. This helps the cake bake evenly and release cleanly after cooling.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: Add the plain flour, baking powder, and salt to a bowl. Whisk gently to combine. This step spreads the baking powder evenly so the cake rises nicely.
  3. Combine Sugar and Eggs: In a large bowl, beat the caster sugar and eggs until the mixture looks pale and slightly thick. This gives the cake structure and a smooth texture.
  4. Add Oil, Yogurt, and Lemon: Pour in the oil, yogurt, lemon juice, and lemon rind. Mix until everything blends smoothly. The batter should look glossy and light.
  5. Bring the Batter Together: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Stop mixing once the flour disappears to keep the cake soft.
  6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until golden and a skewer comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly in the pan.
  7. Make and Add the Glaze: Mix icing sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Spoon the glaze over the warm cake so it slowly sinks in and coats the surface.