Name: Indulgent Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (at room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar; 2 tablespoons Lemon Zest; 1 teaspoon Pure Lemon Extract (optional); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 3 large Large Eggs (at room temperature); 2 cups Cake Flour; 1 tablespoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Whole Milk; 1 cup Full-Fat Sour Cream; 1/4 cup Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice; 2 cups Fresh or Frozen Raspberries (do not thaw if frozen); 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour (to coat raspberries); 8 ounces Full-Fat Cream Cheese (softened); 4 cups Confectioners' Sugar; 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Zest; 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice; 1/4 cup Raspberry Preserves; 1 lemon Thinly Sliced Lemon; 1 cup Fresh Raspberries

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The first bite of this Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is like a burst of sunshine on a warm day. Imagine the zing of fresh lemons harmonizing with juicy, sweet raspberries, each mouthful melting into a perfectly moist cake that leaves you craving more. I discovered this delightful recipe while searching for the perfect dessert to celebrate a friend’s birthday, and it quickly became my go-to for every special occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or need a show-stopping centerpiece for a gathering, this cake caters to all. Its elegant appearance, with creamy frosting and vibrant berry accents, not only pleases the eye but also tantalizes the taste buds. Plus, with its versatile nature, feel free to swap out berries or sprinkle in a hint of almond extract for a new twist! Get ready to create a dessert that will be the talk of any table.

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake

Delightful, sweet-tart flavor: The burst of flavor from fresh raspberries combined with zesty lemon creates a refreshing experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

Creamy indulgence: The smooth cream cheese frosting adds a luscious texture that balances beautifully with the cake’s lightness.

Versatile variations: Substitute raspberries with blueberries or blackberries, or sneak in some almond extract to customize it to your taste!

Eye-catching presentation: This cake not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning, making it an impressive centerpiece for gatherings.

Quick and easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this cake ready in no time, perfect for impressing guests without the fuss.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a birthday party or a picnic, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit among friends and family! For more delightful inspirations, check out my Decadent Buttery Crescent rolls for a perfect sweet addition to your table.

Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake Ingredients

• Discover the essential ingredients to create this delightful dessert!

For the Cake

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake without overpowering the citrus flavor.
Light Brown Sugar – Imparts a subtle caramel flavor and moisture for a tender crumb.
Lemon Zest – Brightens the cake with aromatic citrus oils, enhancing the flavor.
Pure Lemon Extract (optional) – For an intense lemon flavor that complements the berries.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor harmony in the cake.
Large Eggs – Contributes to a fluffy texture and structural integrity; use at room temperature.
Cake Flour – Creates a soft, light cake structure for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Baking Powder – Provides lift to the cake, ensuring a light and airy texture.
Baking Soda – Works with acidic lemon juice for additional rise.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the cake’s flavors.
Whole Milk – Adds moisture and creaminess to the batter, making it rich.
Full-Fat Sour Cream – Increases moisture and brings a subtle tanginess to the cake.
Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice – Essential for that fresh, tart flavor which defines the cake.
Fresh or Frozen Raspberries – Delivers juicy bursts of flavor; do not thaw if using frozen.
All-Purpose Flour – Coats raspberries to prevent sinking in the batter for a perfect bake.

For the Frosting

Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy frosting; ensure it’s softened for easy spreading.
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and gives a smooth texture to the frosting.
Fresh Lemon Zest & Juice – Brightens the frosting flavor, complementing the cake’s zing.
Raspberry Preserves – Adds a fruity filling between cake layers for extra flavor.

For Decoration

Thinly Sliced Lemon – Enhances visual appeal and adds an elegant touch.
Fresh Raspberries – Garnishes to provide freshness and a vibrant pop of color on top.

With these ingredients, you’ll create a Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting that’s sure to impress!

How to Make Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake

Preheat Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prep two 9-inch round cake pans by lining them with parchment paper and greasing them with cooking spray for easy release.
Creaming Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter along with both granulated and light brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. This step is fundamental for a tender cake.
Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings:
Add the lemon zest and both lemon and vanilla extracts. Then, incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure everything melds beautifully together.
Whisk Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This gives an even distribution of the leavening agents throughout the cake, promoting a perfect rise.
Combine Wet and Dry:
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Afterward, stir in the whole milk, sour cream, and fresh lemon juice until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
Add Raspberries:
Toss the fresh or frozen raspberries in a bit of all-purpose flour. Gently fold them into your batter, being cautious not to break them apart. This will help keep the lovely bursts of flavor intact during baking.
Bake the Cakes:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake them in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool Cakes Properly:
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove them and place them on a wire rack to cool completely; this is crucial to avoid melting the frosting later.
Prepare the Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, then the lemon zest, juice, and a pinch of salt until everything is smooth and well combined.
Assemble and Decorate:
Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top and add a thin layer of raspberry preserves. Add the second cake layer, frost the top and sides, and finally, decorate with thinly sliced lemon and fresh raspberries for a stunning finish.

Optional: Drizzle with lemon glaze for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake?

Imagine a sunny afternoon gathering, where the air is filled with laughter and delightful aromas—it’s the perfect backdrop for your mouthwatering cake.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits enhances the cake’s flavor while adding vibrant color to your table. The refreshing mix complements the sweet-tart notes of the cake beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream brings a delightful contrast to the cake’s textures. The coolness balances the zesty lemon and raspberry, making each bite a refreshing experience.
Mint-Infused Iced Tea: Quench your thirst with a chilled mint tea. The herbal notes of mint provide a refreshing palette cleanser between bites of your decadent treat.
Lemonade Spritzer: A fizzy twist on traditional lemonade with sparkling water adds a delightful effervescence. It echoes the cake’s lemony brightness, making it a perfect pairing for warm days.
Lavender Shortbread Cookies: Delicate cookies bring a crumbly, buttery texture that pairs wonderfully with the lightness of the cake. A touch of floral lavender beautifully complements the citrus flavors.
Chocolate Ganache Tarts: If you’re feeling indulgent, rich chocolate tarts create a decadent contrast to the fruity freshness of the cake. The marriage of chocolate and raspberry is a classic favorite!
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti adds a delightful texture and a hint of nutty flavor that pairs well with your cake’s creaminess. Dip them in coffee or your favorite tea for a delightful treat.
Lemon Curd Parfaits: Layered with fresh berries and creamy yogurt, these parfaits provide an elegant finish to your dessert table, echoing the flavors of the cake while adding a fun element.

Try these delightful pairings and transform your Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake into the star of an unforgettable meal!

Expert Tips for Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier blending, resulting in a smoother batter and a lighter cake.
Don’t Overmix: After folding in the raspberries, mix just until combined to maintain their structure and avoid a gummy texture in the cake.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when inserted in the center.
Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool fully on a wire rack before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting and sliding off.
Frosting Consistency: If the cream cheese frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve the desired spreadable consistency.
Creative Variations: Feel free to experiment with the Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting by using different berries or adding unique flavor extracts that delight your taste buds!

Make Ahead Options

These Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the cakes, let them cool completely, and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap (to prevent dryness) before refrigerating. The cream cheese frosting can also be made up to 3 days in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, take the cake layers out, frost them, and decorate with fresh raspberries and lemon slices for that stunning presentation. This way, you can enjoy a homemade dessert with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!

Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful cake to your heart’s content!

Berry Swap: Replace raspberries with blueberries or blackberries for a different fruity twist. Each berry brings its own unique sweetness and flavor.
Citrus Burst: Add orange zest or juice to the batter for an extra zest and delightful citrusy aroma. This will create a wonderful blend of flavors.
Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped almonds or crushed pistachios for a delightful texture. Not only do they add crunch, but they also enhance the taste profile.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk and sour cream with almond or coconut yogurt to keep it creamy without the dairy. The cake will be just as moist!
Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half the cake flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and a healthier twist. This also adds fiber to each slice.
Almond Extract: Incorporate a teaspoon of almond extract in addition to the vanilla for a subtle, aromatic flavor boost. It can beautifully complement the tartness.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosted cake for a rich, decadent finish. Pairing lemon and chocolate creates a sophisticated fusion.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the batter for a warm, aromatic note. These spices can elevate the flavors and provide a cozy twist to your cake.

How to Store and Freeze Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and delicious.

Fridge: If you want to extend its freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to 1 week. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake layers or individual slices for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for optimal protection.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen slices in the fridge overnight and gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked taste of the Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe raspberries for my cake?
Absolutely! Look for raspberries that are plump, vibrant in color, and free from dark spots or mushiness. They should be fragrant and not overly soft, as this indicates they may be overripe. If they have a bit of a shine, that’s a good sign too!

How should I store leftover cake?
For best results, keep your Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week—just remember to cover each slice to prevent it from drying out!

Can I freeze the cake layers?
Very much so! To freeze your cake layers, first allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the layers in the fridge overnight and then frost them once they’re fully defrosted.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If you find your cake is denser than expected, it may be due to overmixing or insufficient leavening. Make sure you cream the butter and sugars well to introduce air and ensure you’re folding in the dry ingredients gently. If the cake feels too heavy while baking, consider adding an extra egg for an airy lift alongside the baking powder.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. It might be beneficial to check the consistency of your batter and make slight adjustments with the liquid as gluten-free flours can behave differently.

Are there any common allergies I should be aware of?
Indeed! The main allergens in the Decadent Raspberry Lemon Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting include gluten (in the flour), dairy (in the butter, cream cheese, and sour cream), and eggs. If you’re serving guests with allergies, consider using dairy-free or egg-free substitutes, such as applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement, and a dairy-free cream cheese.