Why Make This Recipe
This Dreamy Lemon Cheesecake Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the best of two beloved treats: cheesecake and lemon cake. It offers a refreshing lemon flavor that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a family gathering, or just because you want something sweet. The creamy cheesecake layer paired with a soft lemon cake creates a delicious contrast that everyone will love. The cream cheese frosting adds an extra creamy and tangy touch, making it a showstopper on any dessert table.
How to Make Dreamy Lemon Cheesecake Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients:
- 2 8-ounce packages full fat cream cheese, slightly softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 1 lemon cake mix
- 3 large eggs (for cake)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for cake)
- 1 cup water (for cake)
- Cream cheese frosting (for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
- Add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared springform pan. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Allow it to cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- For the lemon cake, mix the lemon cake mix with eggs, water, and oil according to package instructions. Bake in a separate pan.
- Once the cake and cheesecake layers are completely cool, stack them together.
- Frost the top with cream cheese frosting.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
How to Serve Dreamy Lemon Cheesecake Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
To serve the Dreamy Lemon Cheesecake Cake, slice it into wedges and place them on dessert plates. This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so make sure to keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. You can also garnish each slice with a little lemon zest or some fresh berries for an extra touch.
How to Store Dreamy Lemon Cheesecake Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
To store the cheesecake cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or cover it with foil. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you have leftovers, you can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to freeze it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Dreamy Lemon Cheesecake Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This helps create a smooth and creamy filling.
- When mixing the lemon juice and zest, be careful not to overmix to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Chill the cheesecake layer long enough to make slicing easier and to let the flavors meld together.
- For added lemon flavor, you can use lemon extract in the cake mix.
Variation
You can switch things up by adding different flavors to the cream cheese frosting, like raspberry or strawberry, for a fruity twist. Alternatively, try using a different cake mix flavor, such as vanilla or orange, to change the base of the cake.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the cake may not be as creamy and rich.
2. How long does it take for the cheesecake layer to cool before chilling?
Let the cheesecake layer cool completely for about 1 to 2 hours at room temperature before placing it in the fridge.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
