Name: Lemon Bar Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 23 reviews

If you love the bright, zesty flavors of classic lemon bars but crave something a little softer and more cake-like, you are going to adore this Lemon Bar Cake Recipe. It takes that familiar buttery crust and tangy lemon topping combo, then transforms it into a tender, moist cake that’s perfect for everything from afternoon tea to a festive dessert centerpiece. Every bite delivers a burst of sunshine with the perfect balance of sweet and tart, topped with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar that makes it almost too pretty to eat. Trust me, once you try this Lemon Bar Cake Recipe, it will become your go-to whenever you want a luscious citrus treat that’s simple yet spectacular.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of baking ingredients placed on a white marbled surface, including six white eggs in a silver tray at the bottom left, a small white dish with a white powder near the middle left, a clear bowl with yellow cube-shaped butter pieces in the bottom middle, a gray cup with white creamy mixture and a white spoon inside at the center right, and a white bowl filled with granulated white sugar and a white spoon near the top left. A wire basket with large yellow lemons and green leaves sits at the top right, and a bright yellow lemon squeezer is on the bottom right edge. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Lemon Bar Cake Recipe is a shining example of how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients can come together to create something truly unforgettable. Each component plays a crucial role: the flour and baking powder give structure, the butter adds richness and moisture, and the fresh lemon juice and zest inject bright, lively flavor. These essentials combine to make both the delicate cake base and the vibrant lemon topping sing in perfect harmony.

All-purpose flour: A sturdy foundation for the cake and topping to provide that classic texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the tartness of the lemon while contributing to the cake’s tender crumb.
Baking powder: Helps the cake elevate just enough for a light, soft bite without overpowering the lemon flavor.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness from becoming one-note.
Unsalted butter: Brings richness and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth feel to the cake base.
Eggs: Bind everything together while adding moisture and a slight lift.
Vanilla extract: Adds subtle warmth that complements the citrus tang beautifully.
Fresh lemon juice: Delivers zesty brightness and authentic lemon flavor to the topping.
Lemon zest: Packs a fragrant punch and intensifies the lemon taste without extra liquid.

How to Make Lemon Bar Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Whether you’re using an 8×8-inch pan, greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper to make removal easier will set you up for success. Taking these small prep steps means your cake won’t stick and will bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix is what will give your cake its structure and subtle sweetness. Then, add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract and mix until everything is smooth and well combined. The batter should be silky, which means it’s about to become the perfect tender base for the lemon topping to shine on.

Step 3: Spread the Batter

Pour and spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the surface so the layer is even—this helps the topping bake consistently without any thin or thick patches.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Topping

In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until smooth. The flour may sound unusual here, but it’s key for giving the topping that classic lemon bar snap without it turning out runny. This vibrant mixture is what turns the cake into an irresistible dessert with a sharp, tangy punch.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Carefully pour the lemon mixture over the cake batter in the pan, spreading it gently if needed. Now it’s time to bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the edges have turned a lovely light golden color. Cool the cake completely so the topping firms up before dusting it with powdered sugar.

How to Serve Lemon Bar Cake Recipe

A square lemon bar dessert with three visible layers sits at the center of a white plate with a light blue rim and a thin golden edge. The bottom layer is a golden-brown crumbly crust, the middle layer is a slightly translucent, thick yellow lemon filling, and the top layer is a dusting of white powdered sugar, topped with a twisted lemon peel garnish. To the left of the lemon bar is a thin slice of lemon resting against it. In the background on a white marbled surface, there is a blurred white plate and a fine sieve. The scene also includes a soft, loosely folded white cloth near the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance the fresh and inviting look of this Lemon Bar Cake Recipe with some thoughtful garnishes. A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but you can also add thin lemon slices, a sprinkle of extra lemon zest, or even some fresh mint leaves for a pop of green and aromatic freshness. These little touches elevate presentation and add subtle layers of flavor.

Side Dishes

Since this cake is bright and citrusy, it pairs wonderfully with rich or creamy sides to balance the tang. A scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a side of fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries will complement the lemon flavor perfectly. These accompaniments turn your dessert into a decadent celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the usual square slices when serving your Lemon Bar Cake Recipe! Try cutting it into fun shapes with cookie cutters for parties or layering it in individual mason jars alongside whipped cream and fresh fruit for an elegant, portable treat. You can even use it as a base for trifles or layered parfaits to delight guests with unexpected flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lemon Bar Cake Recipe stays moist and flavorful when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping it chilled helps the lemon topping maintain its perfect texture and keeps the cake fresh, ready for another slice or two whenever the mood strikes.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this cake later, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to two months without losing their delightful lemony taste or tenderness. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

For a warm treat, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or until just warm. This brings out the butter’s richness and refreshes the lemon aroma without drying out the cake. Avoid overheating to keep that lovely tender crumb intact.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is best for its brightness and natural tartness, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just keep in mind the flavor might be less vibrant, so consider adding a little extra zest or a small splash more juice to compensate.

Is this Lemon Bar Cake Recipe gluten-free?

This recipe as written uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free baking flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Just be sure to check the blend’s substitution ratio for best results.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. The texture might be slightly different, but the cake’s flavor will still shine through wonderfully.

How can I make the topping more tart?

If you like your lemon topping with an extra kick, increase the lemon juice slightly or add more lemon zest. Just be careful not to add too much flour beyond what the recipe calls for, or the topping might get too dense.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

To get neat, clean slices, chill the cake in the fridge for at least an hour before cutting. Using a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts also helps your slices stay intact and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Bar Cake Recipe is one of those delightful desserts that feels like a sunny hug on a plate. It’s fresh, tangy, and satisfyingly tender, capturing the best elements of classic lemon bars in cake form. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a bright, sweet treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and make some lemony magic happen in your kitchen—you won’t regret it!