06/18/2026
Dreamy Lemon Cheesecake Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This cake is what lemon lovers dream about. Layers of soft homemade lemon cake wrapped around a rich, creamy lemon cheesecake center, all covered in silky cream cheese frosting. Every bite is bright, tangy, sweet, and completely irresistible.
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, brunches, or anytime you want a dessert that truly steals the show.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Layer:
• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
For the Lemon Cake Layers:
• 1½ sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 3 cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1¼ cups buttermilk
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon extract
• Zest of 2 lemons
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• 6–6½ cups powdered sugar
Directions
Prepare the cheesecake layer and bake until set. Chill completely.
Prepare the lemon cake batter and bake two cake layers until lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely.
Beat together butter, cream cheese, lemon extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy to make the frosting.
To assemble, place one lemon cake layer on a cake stand. Add a thin layer of frosting, place the chilled cheesecake layer on top, then frost lightly. Add the second lemon cake layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Chill before slicing for the cleanest layers.
This cake combines the best of cheesecake and lemon cake into one unforgettable dessert. The creamy center, moist cake layers, and tangy frosting make it a guaranteed crowd favorite.