Melt-in-Your-Mouth Lemon Cake – A Classic German Delight
This German Lemon Cake is unbelievably soft, moist, and full of bright citrus flavor. With a delicate, buttery texture and a hint of tangy lemon, it melts in your mouth with every bite. Best of all, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make—just 15 minutes of prep! Perfect for tea time, celebrations, or a simple treat to brighten your day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (250ml) warm water
- 2 tsp (7g) dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (optional, for extra softness)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture – In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Batter – In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, Greek yogurt (if using), and the yeast mixture. Stir until a smooth batter forms.
- Rest & Bake – Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and let it rest for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake Until Golden – Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Finish with Butter – Brush with melted butter or olive oil while warm for an extra-soft texture. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter.
- A light dusting of powdered sugar makes a beautiful finishing touch.
- Serve with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.