Lady Bird Johnson’s Lemon Cake

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:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
  6. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan or cake pans, spreading it out evenly.
  8. 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.
  9. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top.
  3. 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.

Leave a Comment