Lady Bird Johnson’s Lemon Cake is a classic recipe known for its light, citrusy flavor and moist texture. While the exact recipe might vary, here’s a version inspired by her famous cake:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for consistency)
Instructions:
For the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan or cake pans, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes (for a bundt pan) or 25-35 minutes (for round cake pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top.
- Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy this delicious and refreshing Lemon Cake inspired by Lady Bird Johnson’s recipe! It’s perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to special celebrations.