Description
A soft, tender lemon bar cake inspired by classic lemon bars, featuring a buttery cake base and a bright, tangy lemon topping finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. This easy dessert combines the best of lemon bars and cake in one irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 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
Lemon Topping
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make Cake Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Spread Batter: Evenly spread the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth, level surface.
- Prepare Lemon Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Layers: Carefully pour the lemon topping mixture over the cake batter layer in the pan, ensuring even coverage without disturbing the base too much.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Finish: Allow the lemon bar cake to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, add more lemon zest to the topping mixture.
- Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner, neater cuts.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
