Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
This Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion! Bursting with juicy raspberries and topped with a sweet streusel, this cake combines the tangy freshness of lemon with the sweetness of berries. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a cozy treat, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of lemon and raspberries creates a refreshing taste that will brighten your day.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can enjoy this delightful cake.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert at dinner parties, birthdays, or just because—you can enjoy it anytime!
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make this cake a showstopper on any table.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it great for gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin baking your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake, gather all necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool helps achieve the perfect creamy texture for your batter without much effort.
- Springform pan: Ideal for easy removal of the cake, allowing you to present it beautifully.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently while keeping your workspace organized.
Ingredients
This easy Lemon Raspberry Cake is topped with delicious streusel and filled with juicy raspberries! Your guests will be begging you for the recipe.
For the Cake Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (from 2 large lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
For the Crumb Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
How to Make Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350˚F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Sour Cream
Add in:
1. Two large eggs,
2. One cup of sour cream,
3. One teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl:
1. Combine two cups of cake flour,
2. One teaspoon of baking powder,
3. One-fourth teaspoon of baking soda,
4. One-fourth teaspoon of salt.
Add this flour mixture to the batter, whisking until just combined.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Zest
Stir in:
1. One-fourth cup of lemon juice,
2. One tablespoon of freshly grated lemon zest.
Step 6: Prepare Springform Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan:
– Spread evenly across the bottom.
– Top with two cups of fresh raspberries in a single layer so they aren’t too crowded.
Step 7: Make the Streusel Topping
In a bowl, combine:
1. One cup of all-purpose flour,
2. One-half cup of granulated sugar,
3. Half a teaspoon of lemon zest,
4. Half a cup of room-temperature unsalted butter.
Mix for 2-3 minutes until it resembles crumbly dough.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Distribute the streusel evenly over the raspberries:
– Bake for about 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
– Let cool for about 15 minutes before removing the springform ring, then allow to cool completely before serving.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
Serving your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping can elevate its delightful flavors. Here are some creative ideas to make your dessert experience even better.
Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream enhances the cake’s tangy lemon flavor. Simply whip heavy cream with a touch of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the tartness of raspberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Serve with Lemon Curd
- Drizzling homemade or store-bought lemon curd over each slice adds an extra zing that complements the cake beautifully.
Garnish with Mint Leaves
- Fresh mint leaves not only add color but also provide a refreshing herbal note that brightens up each bite.
Accompany with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your cake alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage will enhance the cake’s freshness, making it a delightful afternoon treat.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Arrange slices of Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake on a large platter alongside fresh berries and small bowls of whipped cream or yogurt for guests to customize their servings.
How to Perfect Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
To ensure your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake is always a hit, consider these helpful tips for perfecting this recipe.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing butter, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature helps them incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a smoother cake.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the light crumb you want.
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Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached for perfect moisture.
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Cool Properly: Let the cake cool in the pan for a bit before removing it. This helps maintain its shape and prevents breaking apart.
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Store Correctly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.
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Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different fruits like blueberries or strawberries along with raspberries for new flavor combinations while maintaining that wonderful lemon zest!
Best Side Dishes for Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and contrast to the tartness of the cake, making it a refreshing choice.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a healthy side that complements the richness of the cake without overpowering it.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese balances the sweetness and acidity, providing savory notes.
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Lemon Sorbet: The icy texture and tartness mirror flavors in the cake, creating a cohesive dessert experience.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats add elegance and indulgence, perfect for special occasions alongside your cake.
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Pistachio Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti offers an interesting texture contrast while providing nutty flavors that pair well with lemon.
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Almond Cookies: Light almond cookies bring out nutty undertones in the dessert and are easy to enjoy between slices.
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Spiced Chai Latte: A warm chai latte provides cozy spices that enhance your taste buds after enjoying each slice of cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients – Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
- Overmixing the batter – Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision. Incorrect measurements can affect flavor and texture.
- Skipping the streusel topping – The crumb topping adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step for the best results!
- Not letting the cake cool properly – Allow the cake to rest before removing it from the springform pan. This helps prevent breakage.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the cake in for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop – Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making an Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping.
Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but make sure they are thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
How do I make my Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake more lemony?
Increase the amount of lemon juice or zest in the batter for an extra zesty flavor. Adjust according to your taste preference.
Can I substitute sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream that will also add creaminess and tanginess.
What should I serve with my Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake?
This cake pairs perfectly with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added richness.
Final Thoughts
The Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping is a delightful dessert that combines bright flavors with a satisfying crumbly topping. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Feel free to customize it by adding other fruits or adjusting the sweetness levels. Try this recipe today and impress your guests!
Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping, a perfect dessert for any occasion. This scrumptious cake features the tangy brightness of fresh lemons paired with juicy raspberries and a sweet, crumbly streusel topping. Whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy family treat, this cake will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it’s ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Serve it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or lemon curd for an extra special touch!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (from about 2 large lemons)
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- For the crumb topping: 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes). Add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla; mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the batter until just combined.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest. Pour batter into the prepared pan and top evenly with raspberries.
- For the crumb topping: Mix flour, sugar, lemon zest, and butter in a bowl until crumbly; sprinkle over raspberries.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
