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Citrus Layer Cake with Creamy Frosting Recipe

Citrus Layer Cake with Creamy Frosting Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 25 reviews

This vibrant Citrus Layer Cake with Creamy Frosting combines zesty lemon, orange, and lime flavors in moist, tender cake layers. The cake is layered and frosted with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting infused with citrus juice, then beautifully decorated with fresh citrus slices for a stunning finish. Perfect for celebrations or a refreshing dessert, this cake offers a bright, delicious treat that balances sweetness and citrus tang in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Citrus Cake Layers:

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1¾ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon, 1 orange, and 1 lime
  • 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice

For the Citrus Frosting:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or orange juice for a sweeter frosting)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh slices of oranges, limes, and tangerines
  • Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line five 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and zest of lemon, orange, and lime. Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the batter, starting and ending with flour. Mix in the lemon and orange juices until just combined.
  2. Bake the Cakes: Divide batter evenly among pans. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  3. Make the Citrus Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract and lemon or orange juice until smooth.
  4. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a stand. Spread an even layer of frosting on top. Repeat with remaining layers, then apply a thin crumb coat covering top and sides. Chill for 15 minutes, then add the final frosting layer for a smooth finish.
  5. Decorate with Citrus Slices: Arrange fresh orange, tangerine, and lime slices on top decoratively. Place smaller citrus slices or halves along the sides for a bright textured look.
  6. Finishing Touches: Optionally brush citrus slices with honey or simple syrup for a glossy finish. Garnish with mint sprigs if desired. Use a sharp, warm knife to slice cleanly, showcasing beautiful layers.

Notes

  • For extra citrus flavor, add additional citrus zest to the frosting or sprinkle zest between layers.
  • Keep the cake refrigerated if not serving immediately to maintain freshness and prevent cream cheese frosting softening.
  • Use firm, fresh citrus fruits for easier slicing and a better presentation.
  • Brush citrus slices with honey or simple syrup to add shine and preserve freshness.
  • Use a warm knife when slicing the cake for cleaner cuts revealing the layered look.
  • Room temperature eggs and buttermilk ensure a smooth batter and even baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: citrus layer cake, lemon cake, orange cake, lime cake, cream cheese frosting, layered cake, citrus dessert, homemade cake, party cake, fresh fruit garnish

Find it online: https://maicook.com/citrus-layer-cake-with-creamy-frosting-recipe/