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Delicious slice of perfect lemon pound cake with lemon garnish

Southern Lemon Pound Cake

A delightful dessert that combines zesty lemon flavor with a moist texture, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 12 servings

Ingredients
  

For the cake

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for greasing) To grease the loaf pan.
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for dusting) To dust the greased pan.
  • 3 cups cake flour, sifted Provides a light texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda For leavening.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Balances flavor.
  • 2-3/4 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature Creates a rich texture.
  • 3 tablespoons lemon zest Enhances lemon flavor.
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature Helps with structure and moisture.
  • 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice Adds acidity and brightness.
  • 1 cup sour cream, room temperature Adds moisture and richness.

For the frosting

  • 2-3/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted For smooth frosting.
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice For frosting flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Grease a loaf pan with the melted butter and dust with flour.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, baking soda, and kosher salt.
  • In another bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and room temperature unsalted butter until light and fluffy.
  • Add the lemon zest to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring to combine.
  • Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Stir in the fresh squeezed lemon juice and sour cream until fully combined.
  • Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Baking

  • Bake in a preheated oven until golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Frosting

  • While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by mixing the sifted powdered sugar with fresh squeezed lemon juice until smooth.
  • Drizzle or spread the frosting over the cooled cake.

Notes

This cake can be served warm or at room temperature and is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keyword Buttery Cake, Easy Dessert, Lemon Pound Cake, Moist Cake, Southern Cake