Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

This Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping will surely impress your guests with its delightful combination of zesty lemon and sweet raspberries. Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or any occasion, this cake is not only simple to make but also visually stunning. The crumb topping adds a delightful texture that contrasts perfectly with the moist cake, making each bite a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The tangy lemon and juicy raspberries create a refreshing taste sensation.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can succeed.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors of the raspberries make this cake visually appealing on any dessert table.
• Versatile Recipe: This cake can easily be adapted by swapping out fruits or adding extras like nuts.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 9-inch springform pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy, resulting in a light and airy batter.
• 9-inch springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cake while maintaining its shape.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this delicious Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake:

For the Cake

• 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
• 1/4 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 the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with butter. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together:
1. Add the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Mix until light and fluffy, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, add:
1. Eggs, one at a time,
2. Then add in the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate small bowl, combine:
1. Cake flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Baking soda,
4. And salt.

Slowly add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while whisking until just combined.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Zest

Gently fold in:
1. The fresh lemon juice,
2. And freshly grated lemon zest.

Step 6: Prepare to Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Top it with:
– Evenly distributed fresh raspberries in a single layer.

Step 7: Make the Streusel Topping

To prepare the streusel topping:
1. In a bowl, combine:
– The remaining all-purpose flour,
– Additional granulated sugar,
– And more lemon zest,
– Lastly, add in room temperature butter.

Mix for about 2–3 minutes until it resembles crumbly dough.

Step 8: Bake Your Cake

Distribute the streusel topping evenly over the raspberries. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately:
– 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let it rest for about 15 minutes before removing the springform ring. Allow it to cool completely before serving! Enjoy this mouthwatering Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping!

How to Serve Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

This Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping is perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive celebration, serving it right can elevate the experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast to the tartness of the lemon and raspberries.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each slice. The cold ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm cake.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Create a simple lemon glaze using powdered sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle it over the cake for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a refreshing taste. Place a few sprigs on top before serving.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Serve with additional fresh raspberries or blueberries on the side. This enhances the berry flavor in the cake.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

To ensure your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like butter and eggs blend more easily when they’re at room temperature, leading to a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool fully helps maintain its structure and flavor.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to try different fruits or nuts in the crumb topping for variation.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

Pairing your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping with complementary side dishes enhances your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing palate cleanser that complements the citrus notes in the cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
3. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, honey, and granola offer creaminess and crunch that pair well with dessert.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory balance to sweet flavors.
5. Herbed Quinoa Salad: The nuttiness of quinoa combined with herbs serves as a light, nutritious side dish.
6. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add another layer of sweetness while echoing tropical flavors.
7. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, this rich dessert contrasts nicely with fruit-based cakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with an Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always let your ingredients sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make your cake tough. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy and adjust cooking times as needed.
• Skipping the parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. Always line your pan for the best results.
• Crowding the raspberries: Too many raspberries can weigh down the cake. Distribute them evenly in a single layer for a perfect bake.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious cake, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What makes this Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping special?

This cake combines zesty lemon flavor with fresh raspberries and a crumbly topping, offering a delightful contrast of tastes and textures.

Can I use frozen raspberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries! Just be sure to thaw them and drain excess liquid before adding them to the batter.

How do I customize the flavor of my Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake?

You can add other fruits like blueberries or strawberries, or even mix in some nuts for added crunch. Adjust the lemon zest for more or less citrus flavor as desired.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! Substitute with a gluten-free cake flour blend for a gluten-free version of this scrumptious cake.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lemon Raspberry Cake with Crumb Topping is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it to suit your tastes by adding different fruits or flavors. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy dessert at home, this cake is sure to impress everyone who tries it!